Manchester City striker Erling Haaland may take compassionate leave following the death of his close friend, Ivar Eggja.
Eggja, best man at Alfie Haaland’s wedding, shared a friendship with the Haaland family that spanned decades.
He became a trusted confidant to the Premier League Golden Boot winner, with Haaland referring to him affectionately as “uncle.”
Eggja, 59, played an integral role within Haaland’s camp.
Haaland was at Manchester City training on Thursday, preparing for the upcoming match against Brentford.
However, City manager Pep Guardiola emphasized that family comes first and players are always supported if they need to step away for personal reasons.
Eggja was present at Haaland’s unveiling at the Etihad Stadium in 2022 and remained a close companion throughout the player’s career.
The two even attended last year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony together.
Haaland has openly acknowledged Eggja’s significant role in helping him navigate the challenges of elite sport, including assisting with logistics and finding a city-centre apartment upon his move from Borussia Dortmund, just as he had done when Haaland joined the Bundesliga club.
“You are a legend, Ivar,” Haaland said.
“Words cannot describe how much you meant to me!
“Words cannot describe how much you will be missed!
“Thank you for everything, you madman.
“We will see each other again. Rest in peace, Ivar.”
Erling Haaland has already scored seven goals in just three league games this season, including back-to-back hat-tricks against Ipswich Town and West Ham United.
The 24-year-old’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, paid tribute to Eggja, highlighting his crucial role in their operation.
“Ever since I met you, I thought your power was to brighten up any room,” she said.
“I didn’t know it was a superpower, and that you would go through so much, so soon, so fast, in a way that is the best example of strength, dignity, tolerance and optimism that family and friends can only dream of.
“It was an honor to be a small part of your journey.”
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