The expulsion of Pablo Barrios in Atlético Madrid's match against Celta de Vigo has caused significant controversy in the red-and-white environment. It is not the first time the young academy player has received a direct red card at a crucial moment. Less than a month ago, he was also sent off in the Champions League against Bayer Leverkusen. However, far from falling into destructive criticism, many voices have come to his defense, including Santi Expósito, who was his coach in Real Madrid's academy.
Santi Expósito Defends Pablo Barrios: "He Can't Be Harmed"
In a conversation with Mundo Deportivo, Santi Expósito made it clear that Pablo Barrios doesn't deserve the media lynching that some have directed at him after his latest expulsion. "It's evident that Pablo makes a tackle that isn't the best, but there's no bad intention. We can say he could have been more cautious, but the important thing is that there's no malice," his former coach assured.
Expósito has known Barrios since he was a child and highlights his unwavering commitment both on and off the field. "It's very easy to criticize young people, but Pablo has been an exemplary boy since he was a youth player. He has faced difficulties in life, even on a personal level, and has always moved forward with work and effort," he emphasized.
A Key Piece in Atlético Madrid
Beyond the specific episode of his expulsion, Santi Expósito wanted to recall Barrios's importance in Atlético Madrid's scheme. "If now he's going to be judged just because he was sent off in the 6th minute, we should also value all the minutes when he's one of the best. He goes for everything, steals many balls, clarifies the game, and makes decisions with intelligence," he explained.
The coach insisted that the red-and-white academy player is a footballer who drives his teammates and is 100% committed to the team. For this reason, he asked that he not be excessively punished for a specific mistake. "He can't be harmed when he's exemplary in everything. He always leaves the last drop of sweat on the field, and nowadays that's needed," he stated.
A Talent Atlético Must Nurture
Barrios's former coach also made an interesting reflection on the value the midfielder has for Atlético Madrid. "He's one of the players that must be nurtured, not mistreated. He's a young guy who needs to learn and will bring many successes to Atlético," he assured.
Additionally, Expósito recalled that, had they known his potential, Real Madrid would never have let Pablo Barrios go. "Atleti has a gem that many big teams would want. He's a complete midfielder, steals balls, has presence and goal, is good in the air, and is very skillful with the ball. He sees spaces where others don't," he concluded.