Pablo Barrios Ruled Out as Atlético Madrid Face Congested Schedule

Pablo Barrios will miss Atlético Madrid’s Sunday La Liga match against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián after sustaining a muscle injury during European competition earlier in the week.

The 21-year-old started Atlético’s UEFA Champions League opener against Liverpool at Anfield and played 77 minutes before being substituted during the team’s 2-1 defeat.

Medical examinations conducted by Atlético’s medical staff confirmed that Barrios suffered a low-grade myofascial injury in his right leg. The Spanish club announced his absence on Saturday.

The injury removes a regular starter from manager Diego Simeone’s lineup during a congested domestic stretch. After facing Real Sociedad, Atlético is scheduled to play Osasuna before hosting rival Real Madrid in the Madrid derby at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Barrios has played an