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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“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.”
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.
