Manchester City’s forward Erling Haaland has shared the sad news of the passing of a close family friend, Ivar Eggja, who died at the age of 59.
Haaland, who has been occupied with international duties, took to social media on Wednesday evening to announce Eggja’s death.
A Tribute to ‘Uncle’ Ivar
Eggja was more than just a family friend to Haaland; he was affectionately known as ‘Uncle’ and was a key figure in the Haaland family.
His role extended beyond mere friendship, as he was deeply involved in the life and career of Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Haaland expressed his grief: “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.”
A Man of Many Roles
Eggja played a significant part in Haaland’s football journey.
When Haaland joined Manchester City in 2022, Eggja took charge of finding and furnishing an apartment for him, allowing the striker to concentrate on his game.
He had previously done the same for Haaland at Red Bull Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund.
Haaland once mentioned that he felt Eggja’s support was crucial to his early successes in football.
Remembering a Legacy
Eggja, who was also Alf-Inge’s best man at his wedding to Haaland’s mother, Gry Marita, leaves behind three children: Fabian, Felix, and Ine.
Ine confirmed the news on Facebook, sharing a touching tribute: “The superhero of our lives has been taken from us.
At 3.30 p.m. we said goodbye to Dad for the last time and it feels a bit like the whole world has been put on ice.
He meant so much to so many people, but to us he was everything.”
A Career Beyond Football
In 1980, Eggja opened two shoe stores in Byrne, the town where Haaland grew up.
His career later led him into the hospitality industry, where he co-founded a bar and restaurant with Alf-Inge, though it closed in 2014.
Eggja remained a constant presence in Haaland’s football career, often seen at matches with Haaland’s father.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Eggja was also close to Haaland’s advisor, Rafaela Pimenta, who posted a tribute on Instagram: “Ever since I met you, I thought your power was to brighten up any room.
I didn’t know it was a superpower, and that you would go through so much, so soon, so fast, in a way that is the best example of strength, dignity, tolerance, and optimism that family and friends can only dream of.
It was an honor to be a small part of your journey.”
The cause of Eggja’s death has not been disclosed.
His passing marks the second significant loss for Team Haaland, following the death of Mino Raiola in April 2022.
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