Rival watch: Atletico Madrid forward doubtful for Barcelona clash after head injury during international duty | OneFootball

Barcelona could receive a timely boost ahead of their La Liga meeting with Atletico Madrid, with Alexander Sorloth now a major doubt following a head injury.

According to AS, the striker was forced off during Norway’s friendly against Switzerland after suffering a blow to the head that resulted in significant bleeding. 

While the initial assessment did not suggest a serious issue, the situation remains under close medical observation.

It is said that Sorloth initially appeared comfortable after the match and even spoke publicly, but the medical staff have taken a more cautious position.

What happened to Sorloth?

The injury has been diagnosed as a cut and impact wound to the front-right area of his head, which required stitches. 

Given the nature of the injury, further checks have been scheduled before any decision is made.

A key update is expected following a medical review on Thursday, which will determine whether he is cleared to play or advised to rest. 

At this stage, there is no major alarm regarding his overall fitness, but caution remains the priority.

It must be noted that earlier this season, Sorloth suffered a similar head collision that forced him to miss a subsequent league fixture despite avoiding serious damage. 

That precedent suggests Atletico’s medical team are unlikely to take risks this time either, as they are focused on facing Barcelona in a crucial La Liga tie.

Sorloth has been a key attacking reference for Atletico, offering physical presence and goal threat. 

This means his absence would force adjustments in Diego Simeone’s setup and potentially reduce Atletico’s attacking edge.

As a result, Barcelona will gain a lot from the absence, knowing that their opponent is likely to miss the tie, regardless of the fact that they have kept him quiet whenever the two teams have faced each other.