Key Takeaways:
- On the eve of the Real Madrid presidential election, candidate Enrique Riquelme declared that Erling Haaland would move to the Spanish club
- Manchester City strongly denied any release clause for Haaland and is now weighing potential legal action
- Jose Mourinho agreed to return as manager, but his arrival hinges on Florentino Perez’ expected re-election
Haaland Transfer Rumours Ignite Tensions
Manchester City are exploring legal action following statements from Enrique Riquelme, a candidate in Real Madrid’s presidential race, who asserted during a Spanish television appearance that Erling Haaland had a release clause and expressed a desire to sign for the Spanish giants. Riquelme’s remarks have stirred widespread speculation among Real Madrid supporters and the Spanish press, but provoked a robust and immediate denial from Manchester City.
City officials have categorically dismissed any suggestion that their Norwegian striker can leave under such terms. The Premier League club are considering legal remedies, not only over Riquelme’s assertions but also regarding the use of Haaland’s image in this context.
🚨 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Manchester City have released a statement responding to Madrid presidential candidate Riquelme.
"The stories which have emerged from Spain regarding the future of Erling Haaland are false."
"There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual… pic.twitter.com/scQazmGFR1
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) June 4, 2026
Manchester City, Haaland’s Family and Agent Issue Denials
A spokesperson for Manchester City stated: “The stories which have emerged from Spain regarding the future of Erling Haaland are untrue.
“There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual clause to enable it.
“We are considering legal action for the use of our player image in this context.”
Erling Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge Haaland, along with his agent Rafaela Pimenta, joined City in refuting the claims. They told Fabrizio Romano: “All very entertaining but NOT true. We wish all the best for both candidates in the Real Madrid elections”.
Election Sparks Uncertainty at Real Madrid
The surprise presidential election was triggered last month when Florentino Perez, currently at the helm, called for an unexpected contest following a controversial press conference in which he accused media of targeting Real Madrid and questioned a female reporter’s football knowledge. Perez, now 79, had previously run unopposed in the last four electoral cycles but now faces competition from Riquelme.
The outcome of the election will have a significant impact on the club’s future direction, with any decisions regarding major signings or appointments likely to be delayed until after the results. The risk remains that agreements made under Perez could be reversed if Riquelme emerges victorious. Notably, Jose Mourinho has already agreed to return as Real manager, but his official appointment is contingent upon Perez retaining his position. Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konate is tipped to join the club after completing his contract at Liverpool, though this deal, too, may be subject to the election’s outcome.
