Borussia Dortmund president Hans-Joachim Watzke has stated his belief that Manchester City striker Erling Haaland will eventually join Real Madrid. The comments come amid a contested presidential election at Real Madrid, where incumbent Florentino Perez is facing a challenge from businessman Enrique Riquelme.
Riquelme has made ambitious promises, including the signings of both Haaland and Rodri from Manchester City, as well as pursuing a different managerial appointment than Jose Mourinho, who is aligned with Perez. However, these claims were quickly dismissed by Manchester City, who denied any possibility of a transfer for Haaland and threatened legal action over the unauthorised use of his image rights, a development that benefitted Perez’s campaign.
Despite Perez publicly downplaying the possibility of signing Haaland this summer, the player has long been a target for the Spanish club. Haaland signed a contract extension with Manchester City last year, keeping him at the club until 2034, but this has not deterred Real Madrid’s interest. The player himself reportedly harbours ambitions of playing in LaLiga, specifically for Real Madrid, a sentiment previously reported by Sky Germany.
Watzke’s assessment stems from his understanding of Haaland’s personal feelings towards the club. “I know very well what he thinks, and I can say that, of course, he admires Real Madrid and that in the future he would like to play for the club,” Watzke told AS. He clarified that Haaland will remain at Manchester City next season, but predicted a move to Madrid “in two or three years.” Watzke also acknowledged the impact of Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City on Haaland.
The Dortmund president emphasized the widespread knowledge of Haaland’s aspirations within the German club, stating that the idea of him eventually joining Real Madrid is well-known. He also expressed his respect for Real Madrid and its president, Florentino Perez, praising their consistent respect for Borussia Dortmund over the past twelve years. This transfer, when it eventually occurs, would see one of football’s most prolific goalscorers move to one of its most historically significant clubs.
