Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme has publicly stated that he will secure the signing of Erling Haaland if elected, a claim swiftly refuted by Manchester City. Riquelme made the pledge during an appearance on the Spanish television program El Hormiguero, even presenting a Real Madrid shirt with Haaland’s name on the back.
The businessman went further, promising to reimburse the annual membership fees of all Real Madrid socios should he fail to deliver on his promise to bring the Norwegian striker to the Santiago Bernabéu. This bold claim is part of Riquelme’s campaign against current president Florentino Pérez, who has reportedly offered José Mourinho a return to the club should he win re-election.
Manchester City responded strongly to Riquelme’s assertions, issuing a statement through Marca denying any possibility of Haaland leaving the club. The statement also threatened legal action against Riquelme for using the player’s image without permission, citing a lack of any contractual clauses that would allow for such a transfer. Haaland’s father and agent also released a statement, calling Riquelme’s claims “very entertaining… but not true,” and wishing both presidential candidates the best.
Haaland joined Manchester City in the summer of 2022 from Borussia Dortmund for a reported fee of £51.2 million. He quickly established himself as a key player for Pep Guardiola’s side, winning the Premier League Golden Boot in his debut season with 36 goals. Last season, however, was hampered by injury, limiting his appearances but still contributing significantly to City’s successful title defense. The 24-year-old has a contract with Manchester City until 2028, and the club clearly intends to honour it.
This public back-and-forth highlights the intense competition surrounding the Real Madrid presidency and the lengths candidates are willing to go to garner support. While Riquelme’s promise appears to be a campaign tactic, it underscores Haaland’s status as one of the most sought-after players in world football and could potentially destabilize the transfer market should Manchester City ever consider a sale.
