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The Real Madrid presidential election has taken an unexpected twist after candidate Enrique Riquelme claimed that Erling Haaland has already agreed to join the Spanish giants. Facing off against long-serving president Florentino Perez, the 37-year-old businessman has made the Manchester City striker the centrepiece of his campaign to bring a new era to the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Haaland and Rodri promise

During an appearance on the popular Spanish TV show El Hormiguero, Riquelme made a dramatic pledge to Real Madrid members, promising to deliver Manchester City’s biggest stars if elected. He declared that both Haaland and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri were key to his vision for the club, even offering a financial assurance to back his words.

Riquelme, confident that the Norwegian striker is already eyeing Madrid, said: “If I fail to deliver either of these players, I’ve signed a guarantee that I will personally cover 100 per cent of the membership fees for next season. Haaland has a release clause, and he wants to come to Madrid.” He further emphasised his interest in Rodri, adding: “He’s a top player in a position where Madrid need depth. We’ve spoken with his agent, and while we must respect his current club, if I’m president, he’ll play for Madrid. I’ll do everything I can to make it happen.”

Man City and Haaland’s camp respond

Despite the confidence coming from Riquelme’s team, Haaland’s representatives were quick to reject the suggestion of any agreement. The Norwegian forward, who remains under a long-term contract with Manchester City until 2034, is one of the most valuable players in global football. His camp clarified that no formal understanding exists with any Real Madrid candidate.

In a joint statement, Haaland’s father Alfie Haaland and agent Rafaela Pimenta said: “It’s entertaining, but not true. We wish both candidates the best in the Madrid elections.”

According to The Athletic, Manchester City are now evaluating potential legal action over the claims made by Riquelme. The club stated: “Reports from Spain about Erling Haaland’s future are completely false. There is no possibility of this happening, and no contractual clause allows for it. We are considering legal steps over the use of our player’s image in this context.”

Perez counters with Mourinho revelation

Florentino Perez has not taken the challenge lightly and responded by announcing that Jose Mourinho has agreed to return as Real Madrid’s head coach. Perez’s campaign even released a video of the Portuguese manager wearing a Madrid shirt and smiling. However, Mourinho reportedly informed Benfica officials that the footage was AI-generated, aiming to avoid immediate speculation in Lisbon.

A defining vote for Real Madrid’s future

This election marks the first real contest for the club presidency since 2006, ending a long period of unopposed terms for Perez. The debate has extended beyond transfer promises, touching the structural and financial future of the club. While Riquelme’s campaign focuses on marquee signings and appointing club legend Raul as sporting director, Perez is proposing reforms that would allow members to pass their financial shares in the club to their descendants.

Explaining his long-term vision, Perez said: “With me, Madrid will always remain owned by its members. I want them to hold not just emotional wealth, but real financial ownership of the club.” After two seasons without silverware, Sunday’s vote will determine whether Real Madrid continues under Perez’s experienced leadership or embraces Riquelme’s youthful, ambitious direction.