Manchester City’s First-Team present wreath to Erling Haaland family following passing of family friend

A heartfelt gesture from the Manchester City first-team was presented to the Erling Haaland family during the weekend’s meeting with Brentford at the Etihad Stadium.

The contest followed a hugely difficult week for the Manchester City striker and those around him following the sad passing of close family friend, Ivar Eggja. Tributes poured in for the 59-year-old across the course of the week, including from Haaland’s father, Alfie.

Eggja was close to the immediate Haaland family for a number of years, adopting the role of best man at Alfie’s wedding, whilst also accompanying Erling to the Ballon d’Or ceremony in 2023 and attending his unveiling moment at Manchester City in 2022.

Despite being offered the chance of compassionate leave by Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, Erling Haaland decided to continue his duties in leading the line for the Premier League champions on Saturday afternoon, scoring twice to claim a further three points for the club.

Manchester City ensured that they would pay their own respects to Ivar Eggja during the game, presenting a wreath and personal message to the Haaland family at the Etihad Stadium over the weekend.

Alongside a sky blue and white wreath presented to the Haaland family at their private box within the Etihad Stadium, the Manchester City first-team also issued a heartfelt message in light of the sad passing of Ivar Eggja.

“In tribute to our much loved friend, Ivar. You brightened our days on a regular basis and it feels very strange we will not see you again,” a message accompanying the wreath read.

“Your smile, soul and pure effervescence for life will always be remembered! Thank you for being part of our memories, from us all at Manchester City First Team x”

Erling Haaland will now refocus his attentions on the field to the return of UEFA Champions League action on Wednesday night, as Inter Milan visit the Etihad Stadium on matchday one of the brand new League Phase of the competition.

The meeting with the Italian giants marks the second of four consecutive home fixtures for the club, with Arsenal then visiting the home of the Premier League champions on Sunday, before a Carabao Cup third round tie against Watford is scheduled just 49 hours later.