Haaland breaks document after rejecting depart following pal’s passing

On Sep 14, 2024

Erling Haaland chose not to take compassionate leave and instead played in Manchester City’s tough 2-1 victory over Brentford, breaking another Premier League record in the process.

The 24 year old recently mourned the loss of close family friend Ivar Eggja, who was a significant figure in his life and career. Despite City manager Pep Guardiola offering him the option to sit out Saturday’s match due to the emotional impact of Eggja’s passing, Haaland decided to play.

Despite a rocky start for City, with Brentford scoring within the first 22 seconds, Haaland stepped up to score twice, bringing his season’s goal tally to nine in four games. This achievement surpasses any other player in Premier League history, beating Wayne Rooney’s previous record of eight.

Rooney set the record during the 2011-12 season with goals against West Brom and Tottenham, followed by consecutive hat-tricks against Arsenal and Bolton. Haaland’s impressive run includes back-to-back hat-tricks against Ipswich and West Ham, as well as a goal on the opening day at Chelsea.

The 24 year old’s double against Brentford was particularly emotional, likely with his friend Eggja in his thoughts. Haaland posted a heartfelt tribute to his close friend, whom he affectionately referred to as ‘uncle’, on Instagram, reports the Mirror.

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Erling Haaland continued his form
(Image: Getty Images)

“You are a legend, Ivar,” the Norway international penned on Thursday. “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.”

In a press conference on Friday, Guardiola addressed Haaland’s availability, stating: “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 will be aiming for his third Premier League Golden Boot this season
(Image: Getty Images)

Luckily for City, Haaland did take to the pitch and equalised for the reigning champions in the 19th minute, his shot taking a significant deflection off Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock and found the back of the net. Just past the half-hour mark, Haaland capitalised on a long ball from goalkeeper Ederson, lobbing Bees goalkeeper Mark Flekken to put City 2-1 ahead.

Guardiola’s squad held their nerve in the second half to seal a win that sustains their position at the top, exhibiting a flawless start to the season. Meanwhile, team-mate Jack Grealish was full of praise for Haaland, saying: “The second showed what he is all about. He used his body well and a brilliant finish. It is a pleasure to play with him and hopefully he can continue.”

Guardiola had his own words of homage for Haaland: “He said he wanted to play. Of course it’s been tough, he’s a human being, but in the locker room we try to take care of each other. That is the best way sometimes – to go and do your job, and he’s been doing it perfectly for many years.”

The City boss added: “You have to be strong, of course, but maybe for 90 minutes you forget your personal life, I don’t know. So maybe for him playing is good. I never asked if he is ready to play, I just thought ‘he’s going to play’, unless he came to me and said ‘Pep I am not ready.'”