"The problem flared up during Atlético de Madrid's emphatic 5-0 win over Real Betis. Barrios, one of Atlético Madrid's most reliable midfield engines this season, had already been dealing with physical issues in recent weeks, and it culminated in a muscle problem. He lasted barely ten minutes of the second half before limping off, and subsequent tests confirmed a muscle injury that will keep him out for close to a month."
"Barrios had become central to how Atlético played, and he's a miss for Diego Simeone for sure. Known for covering ground, pressing aggressively, and being able to pick out a pass, Barrios was a key ingredient for them. Against Real Betis, he was again setting the tone before the injury cut his night short. Replacing him simply is not straightforward. The options are there, though none feel like a direct swap."
Pablo Barrios suffered a muscle problem in his right thigh during Atlético de Madrid's 5-0 win over Real Betis and lasted barely ten minutes of the second half before limping off. Tests confirmed a muscle injury that will keep him out for close to a month. That timeline rules him out of the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Barcelona on February 12 and jeopardizes availability for upcoming Champions League and La Liga matches. Barrios has been central to Atlético’s midfield through energetic pressing, covering ground and creative passing. Possible replacements include Johnny Cardoso, Koke and Marcos Llorente, none an exact like-for-like swap.
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