Before the New Year, Alexander Sørloth was heavily linked with exiting Atletico Madrid. The Norwegian international striker went from 20 La Liga goals last season, to far too much bench time in this one. Then Diego Simeone gave his Norwegian Viking confidence, 2026 was the kick off for the Sørloth show. Teammate Julian Alvarez has also been heavily linked with exit, last month it was reported that Atletico have changed their minds. On Wednesday night after the Champions League anthem, the two guys showed to the extent why.
Julian Alvarez pasted a free-kick into the Barcelona crossbar in the best Messi fashion for a 0-1 lead, halfway into the dressing room before half-time. An hour into the game, the “bull” Alexander Sørloth was let into the arena, ten minutes later it was 0-2 on the scoreboard.
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Sørloth steered in the cross from Mateo Ruggeri in the 70th minute with one touch and raw power in the duel. This was the Norwegian striker’s 7th goal against the La Liga giants in 14 games. Beat it! For the Atletico supporters, this was also a historic victory. For the first time in 20 years, they were able to leave Camp Nou with a victory.
Alverez and Sørloth. For Atletico Madrid, another confirmation that the duo must move on. According to Marca, the Atletico management is now working on extending the Argentine’s current contract that runs until 2030, where Alvarez will be offered a salary increase from 7 to 10 million euros a year.
Barcelona were sunk by Alvarez and Sørloth goals in a historic loss at Camp Nou, this says everything about the importance the two strikers have for Atletico Madrid.
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