Pep Guardiola issues Erling Haaland update after death of close family friend

5 days ago

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Erling Haaland will decide closer to game time whether he will participate in the match against Brentford this weekend after the passing of a dear family friend.

Haaland - Figure 1 — Photo The Independent

Ivar Eggja served as the best man at Alf-Inge Haaland's wedding and was fondly referred to as "uncle" by Erling. At 59 years old, Eggja built a strong personal bond with the Manchester City forward and played an important role in his close circle of friends.

“Ivar, you’re a true legend,” Haaland shared on social media this week, posting several pictures with Eggja. “I can’t put into words how much you meant to me! It’s hard to express just how much you will be missed!”

"Thanks for all that you’ve done, you wild one. We'll meet again someday. May you rest in peace, Ivar."

Haaland's representative, Rafaela Pimenta, also expressed her admiration.

"From the moment I first encountered you, I felt that your ability to light up a room was something special," she remarked. "I had no idea it was actually a superpower, and that you would face challenges so quickly and so intensely, demonstrating a remarkable blend of strength, dignity, resilience, and hope that everyone in your life could only aspire to."

“I feel privileged to have played a small role in your journey.”

Haaland was seen practicing with the team as usual on Thursday. However, ahead of the Premier League game on Saturday at the Etihad Stadium, City manager Pep Guardiola mentioned, “This has been a difficult time for him and his family. It’s unfortunate news... We are thinking of him and his family. We'll check tomorrow to see if he's ready mentally and physically to participate.”

If Haaland plays, Brentford must find a way to control him if they want to build on their 3-1 victory against newly promoted Southampton before the international hiatus.

The Norwegian player has netted three goals in each of his first two games, facing off against Ipswich and West Ham.

When asked about how to contain Haaland, Brentford's manager Thomas Frank remarked, “It’s nearly futile. Many teams have attempted to limit his impact, but he’s an outstanding player.”