Manchester City will face Watford in the Carabao Cup third round without talismanic striker Erling Haaland, who has been granted time off for personal reasons.
Haaland has returned to Norway to attend the funeral of close family friend Ivar Eggja, who passed away earlier this month at 59. Eggja was instrumental in Haaland’s career, organizing fully-furnished apartments for him at RB Salzburg, Borussia Dortmund, and Manchester City.
Haaland paid an emotional tribute to Eggja on Instagram: “You are a legend, Ivar. Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Words cannot describe how much you will be missed!
City face Watford less than 48 hours after their hard fought draw against Arsenal. The fixture will have preferably been played on a Wednesday to allow for more rest. However, the fixture change accommodates Manchester United’s Europa League commitments against FC Twente.
Haaland has already scored 10 goals in 5 Premier League matches this season. Manchester City on their part won 4 consecutive Carabao Cup titles from 2018-2021 and will be looking to advance into the next round.
