Simeone Confirms Pablo Barrios' Return for Copa del Rey Final

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone has confirmed the return of midfielder Pablo Barrios to the squad for the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad. This comes after Barrios made a full recovery from a recent injury. The young player's return, following a five-week absence from action, will bolster the Argentine coach's options for the final match.

Simeone clarified that Barrios is now available to play normally after overcoming a hamstring injury that had kept him out of recent training sessions and matches. Simeone stated, “Pablo Barrios will be with us” for this encounter.

This decision will provide the technical staff with greater flexibility in managing the midfield against the Basque side, especially with the player having regained the necessary physical fitness for competitive matches.

Barrios' return coincides with the impressive form of midfield duo Koke Resurrección and Marcos Llorente, who have delivered excellent performances recently. Additionally, Jonny Cardoso remains among the candidates for a starting midfield spot. Meanwhile, uncertainty still surrounds defender David Hancko's chances of securing a starting position, as his full readiness to play from the start of the match has not yet been determined.