Erling Haaland may miss Manchester City’s Premier League game with Brentford tomorrow following the death of family friend Ivar Eggja.
Haaland, who has been away on international duty with Norway, announced on Wednesday that Eggja had died at the age of 59.
Eggja was best friends with Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge, and also acted as a fixer for Erling.
The City striker wrote on Instagram: “You are a legend, Ivar. Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Words cannot describe how much you will be missed!”
Haaland has scored seven Premier League goals in just three games this season – including hat-tricks against Ipswich and West Ham.
But Guardiola says he will wait to see if the 24-year-old is in the right frame of mind to face Brentford at the Etihad.
“It is a tough moment for him and his family. It is sad and we will see tomorrow if he is able mentally or physically to play.”
PEP 💬 It was a tough moment for him [Erling Haaland] and his family. It was sad news… Our thoughts are with him and his family. We will see tomorrow if he is mentally and physically able to play. pic.twitter.com/HSoPjLuQQq
— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 13, 2024
Rodri and Foden could return
City could be boosted by the returns of Phil Foden and Rodri, who have both trained this week, but defender Nathan Ake is set to be out until the next international break after sustaining an injury while away with the Netherlands.
Whatever team he selects, Guardiola is expecting a tough test against Thomas Frank’s Brentford.
He added: “I don’t remember an easy game against a team managed by Thomas Frank, a manager I respect enormously.
“They’ve changed their shape a little bit. They have fast and strong players up front and have a really good process in the build-up. So aggressive, man-to-man and defend well so it is a complete team.
“They have always been so difficult and I have a feeling tomorrow will be no exception.”
