A right winger, he spent his best seasons with Tigres UANL of the Liga MX and was known for his speed, dribbling and goal-scoring ability.

With Tigres he conquered a domestic cup or Copa México against Club América in 1976 and two Mexican League championships, first against Pumas UNAM in 1978 and against Atlante in 1982.

He scored over 60 goals in six years and formed a special association in the pitch with Mexican historical creative midfielder Tomás Boy.

Aside from his goalscoring, Barbadillo also played 17 Clásico Regiomontano derby matches against Monterrey, Tigres' main rival.

Barbadillo then moved in 1982 to Italy to play for Avellino, after his magnificent performance in the FIFA World Cup.