This archive report was first published on 25 November 2019.
Atletico Madrid's search for a reliable goal-scorer may have finally found an answer in Alvaro Morata, who has hit six goals in his last seven games for the club.
As of November 25, 2019, Morata's seven goals account for almost a third of Atletico's 22 goals in all competitions, with the striker claiming six of the team's 10 goals in the last month.
His impressive form has earned him a recall to the Spain squad, and he is now the favourite to lead the line for Luis Enrique at Euro 2020 next year.
However, Morata's season started slowly, with as many red cards as goals, including a sending off at the end of a 2-0 win over Mallorca that left him suspended for the city derby against Real Madrid.
Diego Simeone's response to the team's struggles was seen by some as a message to Morata, saying, "There are some that look for people to blame and some that want to work. Only the second lot will get on with me."
"There are some that look for people to blame and some that want to work. Only the second lot will get on with me." — Diego Simeone
Morata has since responded, with his record since returning to Spain from Chelsea standing at almost a goal every two games.
At Chelsea, Morata struggled with consistency, but at 27, his best years should still be ahead of him, and in Atletico, he may have finally found a club where he can settle.
With Diego Costa out injured and Joao Felix still finding his footing, Atletico must find a way to share the load and rely on familiar strengths at the back, particularly against Juventus, who will secure first place in Group D with a victory.
