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Erling Haaland latest as Pep Guardiola provides Man City team news update vs Brentford

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland
-Credit: (Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)


Manchester City are prepared to give their talismanic forward Erling Haaland the option to sit out this weekend's fixture against Brentford following the passing of a close friend.

The 24-year-old goal machine has been in scintillating form since the season kicked off, netting seven times in just three matches, including two consecutive hat-tricks. However, the Norwegian superstar might not feature in Saturday's 3pm game at the Etihad Stadium due to the death of family friend Ivar Eggja.

Eggja, who was the best man at Haaland's father Alfie's wedding, had a longstanding bond with the family. Over the years, the 59-year-old became an influential figure in Erling's life and played a part in his ascent to footballing stardom.

The Haalands both fondly called him 'uncle'. Despite training with Pep Guardiola's squad on Thursday, City's number 9 has been given full support by his manager to take time off if needed.

Addressing the situation in his press conference, Guardiola said: "It was a tough moment for him and his family, it was sad news for a close person of him and his family. Our thoughts are for them. It's sad and we will see tomorrow if he is able mentally and physically to play."

Erling Haaland, Alfie Haaland and Ivar Eggja
Erling Haaland, Alfie Haaland and Ivar Eggja -Credit:Instagram/erling.haaland

Haaland paid homage to Eggja on social media, writing: "You are a legend, Ivar. Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Words cannot describe how much you will be missed!

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"Thank you for everything, you madman. We will see each other again. Rest in peace, Ivar."