Manchester City Considers Legal Action Over Riquelme’s Claims
Manchester City has raised the possibility of legal measures following an unexpected pledge from Enrique Riquelme, a candidate for the presidency of Real Madrid. During a televised discussion on Wednesday, Riquelme, who is vying against incumbent Florentino Perez in the impending election, announced his intention to recruit star striker Erling Haaland if he secures victory.
The 37-year-old entrepreneur showcased a Real Madrid jersey emblazoned with ‘Haaland 9’, declaring his plans to lure the Norwegian forward and even suggesting that he would also bring in Haaland’s teammate, Rodri, from City.
Riquelme’s Commitment and Claims
Riquelme’s proclamation included a personal commitment:
“Should I fail to fulfill my promises regarding either player, I’ve signed a document to cover 100% of next season’s membership fees for our fans.”
He further claimed that Haaland has a release clause in his contract and expressed the striker’s interest in moving to Madrid.
Manchester City’s Response
In response, Manchester City firmly rejected these claims, stating through a club spokesperson that there is “no chance” of Haaland leaving for Real Madrid. They are contemplating taking legal action due to Riquelme’s use of the player’s image during the campaign. The spokesperson emphasized that
“the reports emerging from Spain are inaccurate”
and clarified that no contractual provision exists for such a transfer.
Haaland’s Position at Manchester City
Haaland, who signed a monumental ten-year deal with Manchester City in January 2025, recently expressed his contentment with his situation at the Etihad Stadium. In commentary last April with ESPN, he mentioned he was “super happy” in his current role. His representatives, including agent Rafaela Pimenta and his father Alfie, dismissed Riquelme’s statements as mere entertainment, insisting that there was no truth to the suggestion of a transfer contingent on Riquelme’s election success.
They extended good wishes to both contenders in the Madrid elections, further affirming Haaland’s stability at City. Additionally, sources informed ESPN that there are no plans to entertain offers for Rodri, who is also seen as a key player for the upcoming season while preliminary discussions for a potential contract extension are ongoing, though Rodri has remained noncommittal about his future.
