Erling Haaland has reportedly been offered compassionate leave following the passing of his close friend Ivar Eggja.
The Manchester City star has enjoyed a sensational start to the season but he has now been given the option to miss his side’s upcoming clash against Brentford.
Haaland announced on Wednesday that Eggja had died in a heartbreaking post, and the Daily Mail claim that City have now informed Haaland that he will be allowed to spend some time away from the team if he feels that he needs to.
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Eggja was the best man at Alfie Haaland’s wedding and the pair have been friends for decades, which led the family friend to become a key figure in Haaland’s camp.
The Norway international was so close with Eggja that he would refer to him as ‘uncle’, ensuring that he was present at the Etihad Stadium when he was unveiled as a City player following his move from Borussia Dortmund. Eggja also attended the Ballon d’Or ceremony with Haaland last year.
Haaland rushed to see his ‘uncle’ before his passing whilst away on international duty, and Pep Guardiola has left the door open for the forward to spend more time with his family to mourn the loss of such a key person in his life.
Haaland attended City training on Thursday ahead of their clash with Thomas Frank’s Brentford, but the higher powers at the Etihad have been keen to reiterate to him that ‘family comes first’ and how compassionate leave will remain an option that is on the table.
The striker has enjoyed a sensational start to the season, scoring seven goals in three league appearances, and it remains to be seen whether Haaland feels that he is mentally ready to return to the pitch.
Earlier this week, along with a series of photos with Eggja from over the past few years, Haaland announced the sad news with a post which read: “You are a legend, Ivar.
"Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Words cannot describe how much you will be missed! I don't give a s**t! I don't give a s**! That's exactly what I'm going to do. Thank you for everything, you madman. We will see each other again. Rest in peace, Ivar."
