Diego Simeone Praises Sorloth’s Versatility Following Commanding Victory Against Real Sociedad

Atletico Madrid’s manager Diego Simeone expressed his admiration for striker Alexander Sorloth following the Norwegian’s stunning performance, netting all four goals in a 4-0 triumph against Real Sociedad in LaLiga on Saturday.

Sorloth achieved the fastest hat-trick in LaLiga history within just 11 minutes, before adding a fourth goal to complete the rout by the half-hour mark.

“I was extremely pleased with the team’s first half overall. Alex, of course, is a completely different story,” Simeone remarked during the press conference.

“He had an exceptional evening, particularly in those first 45 minutes, finishing every opportunity that came his way. This allowed us to take control of the match and push it in a direction we never anticipated before kickoff,” he added.

Despite becoming Atletico’s top goal scorer in the league this season with 17 goals, Sorloth has actually started more matches from the bench (19) than in the starting line-up (13).

“If we look at the statistics, he’s scored more goals after coming on in the second half – except for today, of course,” Simeone noted.

The Argentine coach then quickly highlighted the forward’s additional attributes.

“What I appreciate about him is that he plays a vital role in every conceivable moment and context of the game,” Simeone continued.

“When we need to attack, he adds significant offensive presence in the area. If we’re counterattacking, his passing is effective for that. And when we’re under pressure and need to defend, his physicality helps us navigate uncomfortable situations.

“He plays to the needs of the team, making the most of his skills and his goal-scoring opportunities.”

Sorloth, who made the move to Atletico from Villarreal last August, acknowledged his teammates’ contributions to his impressive performance.

“The balls were landing perfectly at my feet, and my teammates provided me with some superb passes,” he stated.

“I’m really pleased… I hope to be part of LaLiga for many more years and to have more matches like this. I did face some difficulties at the start of the season. However, I began to improve in October and November. Now, my teammates understand my game better,” he added.

“It reminds me of last season when I scored four goals against Real Madrid, although I also hit the post then. Today felt like a flashback.”

Sorloth previously spent two seasons on loan at Sociedad from Red Bull Leipzig between 2021 and 2023.