Sorloth returns to Norway duty after World Cup controversy

Sorloth returns to Norway duty after four months out with injury; Atlético monitoring his minutes as he seeks regular playing time under Simeone.

Alexander Sorloth is back with Norway's national team after a four-month absence, having recovered from a calf injury that sidelined him for nearly two months. The Atlético Madrid striker returned to training in October but has struggled for consistent minutes under Diego Simeone, accumulating just 66 official minutes before his first start against Bayern Munich on 3 November, in which he played 59 minutes.

He has yet to score or assist this season, a stark contrast to last year's 20 goals in 54 appearances.

Sorloth's father recently acknowledged the recovery took longer than expected, noting his son is frustrated by the lack of match time. The forward faces a difficult backdrop: he was heavily criticized and abused on social media following Norway's World Cup elimination to England, when his decision to shoot rather than pass to Erling Haaland in a crucial moment drew widespread condemnation, including death threats and calls for suicide.

Norway manager Ståle Solbakken has welcomed Sorloth's return, calling him "a very important piece" for the team, though cautioning he is not yet ready for two full 90-minute matches. Norway face Wales on 14 November and Denmark three days later, currently sitting on three points from four matches.