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Commentary by David Medina for "Marca"
At the age of 14, while captaining and starring for the Under-14 side, Pablo Barrios was shown the exit door at Real Madrid's academy. Despite standing out ever since his arrival, the boy from Moratalaz had to continue his exceptionally promising career away from Valdebebas. Villarreal and Espanyol showed keen interest, but Atletico's intervention would change his life—and his sporting destiny.
Barrios broke down door after door to reach the first team. He established himself so emphatically at the senior level that today he is undeniably one of Atletico's biggest stars. And Barrios—here lies the crux of the matter—should make everyone at Real Madrid question how such a talent found no place at a club still searching in vain for world-class midfielders following the departures of Kroos and Modric.
How much would the Chamartin side pay for such a player today? Does Real Madrid have a midfielder with more talent than this Madrid native? How many of the figures running Real's youth setup back then are now kicking themselves over a decision that today looks utterly inexplicable?
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