MADRID, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- Atletico Madrid have suffered a blow with the loss of Spain under-21 midfielder Pablo Barrios due to injury, just ahead of a crucial stretch in the season, which includes their Champions League debut and two key derbies, one of which is against Real Madrid.

Barrios was forced to withdraw from the under-21 squad after experiencing muscle problems in his left leg. Initially thought to be a minor strain, the issue has now been confirmed as a more serious injury, likely sidelining him for a month.

His absence comes at a challenging time for Atletico, as they face seven games in just over three weeks. The schedule includes La Liga matches against Valencia, Rayo Vallecano (the first of the Madrid derbies), Celta Vigo, Real Madrid, and Real Sociedad.

Diego Simeone's side also has two crucial Champions League fixtures, hosting RB Leipzig on September 19 and traveling to Lisbon to face Benfica on October 2, just three days after their clash with Real Madrid.

Barrios has played a key role for Simeone this season, logging 315 minutes across Atletico's first four matches. His injury leaves the team with limited options in central midfield, with Rodrigo de Paul, Koke, and new signing Conor Gallagher available to fill the gap. Enditem

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