Pep Guardiola issues 'tough Erling Haaland update ahead of Brentford and Arsenal clashes

Manchester City have been without their star striker Erling Haaland this week, just one week before their huge clash with likely title rivals Arsenal. Premier League clubs return to action across this weekend following the international break, but City have been without their talisman due to a sad development.

His father’s best friend Ivar Eggja, whom he called an ‘uncle’ and regarded as a very close friend, passed away. With the death impacting Haaland significantly, Pep Guardiola allowed him to take time off through compassionate leave to visit home and support his father Alf-Inge. The leave means Haaland is not certain to play against Brentford on Saturday.

Guardiola said in his press conference: “It was a tough moment for him and his family. It was sad news. He was close to him and his family. 59 years old. Our thoughts are with him and his family. We will see tomorrow if he is mentally and physically able to play.”

Haaland wrote in a tribute: “You are a legend, Ivar. 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.”

City will be confident of seeing off Brentford on Saturday with or without Haaland, although the Bees have been a thorn in City’s side at times, and they will look to cause another upset. Still, many City fans will already have their eyes on next weekend’s clash with likely title rivals Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, with a Champions League date with Inter Milan coming before that.

Haaland looks set to be available for both of those games, but Guardiola has made it clear he wants to be careful with the striker’s emotional state, which is refreshing, especially given how much City rely on their star goalscorer.