San Fernando, Cádiz
Born in San Fernando, Cádiz, Andalusia, Barral started playing professionally in the lower divisions, with Real Madrid's B and C teams, with a loan stint at neighbouring CF Fuenlabrada in between. In the 2006–07 season he moved to Sporting de Gijón where, during his second year, he formed a formidable attacking partnership with Mate Bilić (arrived in January 2008) to help the Asturias side return to La Liga after a 10-year absence.