Erling Haaland’s availability for Manchester City against Brentford remains in doubt, confirms Pep Guardiola

The availability of Erling Haaland remains in doubt for the weekend’s fixture between Manchester City and Brentford, in light of the tragic loss of a close family friend.

Haaland himself, his father, and his lead representative Rafaela Pimenta all paid tributes to the late Ivar Eggja, who has been a close friend of the Norwegian family for several decades, taking on the role of best man at Alfie Haaland’s wedding.

Eggja has also played a significant role in supporting Erling Haaland ever since joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, attending the striker’s unveiling at the Etihad Stadium and travelling with the forward to last year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony.

Manchester City have stood in full support of the 24-year-old over the last few days, insisting that they are more than happy to grant a period of compassionate leave for the player, should that be requested.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference ahead of the meeting with Brentford on Saturday afternoon, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola sent heartfelt condolences to the Haaland family in light of the loss of close friend, Ivar Eggja.

“It was a tough moment for him (Erling Haaland) and his family, it was a sad, sad news,” said Guardiola on Friday afternoon. “It’s a close person to him and his family, 59-years-old. Our thoughts are, of course, with him and all his family.”

Pep Guardiola was unable to offer any further clarity as to whether Haaland would be available for Manchester City against Brentford, despite the striker training as normal this week. Guardiola said, “It’s sad, and we’ll see tomorrow if he’s able mentally and physically to play.”

Erling Haaland returned to training alongside his Manchester City teammates on Thursday afternoon, with the first bulk of international stars returning to the City Football Academy on Wednesday ahead of the weekend’s game.

City are entering into their first challenging run of fixtures of the season, with games staggered across weekends and midweek slots for the foreseeable future, as clashes against Inter, Arsenal, and Newcastle United loom before the next international break.

Pep Guardiola has a largely fully-fit squad at his disposal ahead of the first meeting with Brentford this weekend, although long-term injuries continue to be treated on Oscar Bobb (fractured leg) and most-recently, Nathan Ake (suspected hamstring problem).