Pep Guardiola and Manchester City welcomed Erling Haaland back to the City Football Academy on Thursday following a difficult few days for the Norwegian striker.

The Norway international, alongside those within his inner circle including his father Alfie Haaland, has been mourning the loss of a close family friend and a crucial figure in supporting the Manchester City forward during his young career thus far.

The tragic passing of Ivar Eggja has been marked across social media by those in Norwegian football as well as the City striker, and his agent Rafaela Pimenta, with the former Borussia Dortmund star writing on his social media channel, “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.”

But Erling Haaland has returned to work at Manchester City following the latest international break on Thursday, with the club showing their full support for the striker should he require time away from the intensity of the looming schedule.

As first reported by MailSport’s Jack Gaughan, Erling Haaland was present in training with the wider returning squad on Thursday ahead of Saturday afternoon’s Premier League meeting with Brentford.

However, the report makes clear that in light of the difficult personal circumstances over recent days, the 24-year-old will be allowed to take compassionate leave if he requires time away after the death of close friend, Ivar Eggja.

Eggja was present for Erling Haaland’s official unveiling at the Etihad Stadium back in the summer of 2022, and went on to remain as a supporting figure with the Norwegian for the remainder of his City career thus far.

Such was the close nature of Eggja’s relationship with Erling Haaland and his wider family, he also attended the Ballon d’Or ceremony of 2023 as the Manchester City forward emerged as a favourite for the prize.

Pep Guardiola will likely offer an update on Erling Haaland’s availability for the weekend’s meeting with Brentford, alongside the fitness of his other returning stars including Savinho and Phil Foden.