Haaland found the back of the net in his fourth consecutive Premier League game as his brace helped City secure another win over Brentford on Saturday. The Norwegian goal machine already has nine goals to his name after the first four league games as the reigning champions sit top of the table after a perfect start to the season.
The former Borussia Dortmund forward was, however, a doubt for Saturday’s clash after it was reported Guardiola could grant the player time off, with the Haaland family mourning the loss of Ivar Eggja, a long-time family friend and confidant following his death at the age of 59. Eggja played a vital role in the forward’s career and personal life, offering both advice and support during his meteoric rise to stardom.
Guardiola reveals Haaland’s strength
Speaking to City’s website, Guardiola said:
“(He told me he wanted to play) yesterday. That’s his strength. For 90 minutes you forget about your personal life. It’s been hard for his family, for someone to die at that age is hard for any human being. He’s been depressed in the locker room, but we try to take care of everyone and be close to them.”
“Yesterday he was in a much better mood and sometimes the best way is to do your job. He, for many years, did it perfectly. That’s his strength. For 90 minutes you forget about your personal life and the punch that life gives you. If he’s not ready to play, he’ll come to me and tell me he’s not ready to play. He has so many qualities and that’s a weapon that we have to use.”
Guardiola’s men will be back in action in midweek as they begin their 2024-25 Champions League campaign against Inter at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.
