Manchester City is considering legal action following comments made by Enrique Riquelme, a candidate for the presidency of Real Madrid, who vowed to secure the signing of Erling Haaland upon his election.
During an appearance on Spanish television on Wednesday, Riquelme, who is set to compete with current president Florentino Perez in the upcoming election, showcased a Real Madrid jersey emblazoned with ‘Haaland 9’ while asserting that the Norwegian striker would be signed if he wins.
In addition to Haaland, Riquelme also expressed his intention to sign Haaland’s teammate Rodri, asserting, “If I fail to deliver on either of these commitments, I have agreed to pay 100% of the membership costs for next season.”
Riquelme claimed, “Haaland has a release clause, and he is eager to join Madrid.”
However, in a statement released Thursday, Manchester City firmly refuted any possibility of Haaland transferring to Real Madrid, indicating they are contemplating legal action regarding Riquelme’s publicity stunt with the jersey.
“The reports emerging from Spain concerning Erling Haaland’s future are false,” a spokesperson for the club stated, adding, “There is no possibility of this happening, nor is there a contractual clause that would facilitate it.” They further stated, “We are considering legal action for the misuse of our player’s image in this context.”
Haaland signed a landmark 10-year contract with City in January 2025, and in an interview with ESPN in April, he expressed being “super happy” at the Etihad Stadium.
In a joint statement to ESPN, Haaland’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, and his father, Alfie, dismissed the idea of a transfer as “all very entertaining but not true” and extended their best wishes to both candidates in the Madrid elections.
Insiders have informed ESPN that City does not intend to entertain offers for Rodri, who has one year left on his contract, and they are planning for the upcoming season with the Spain midfielder in mind. Initial discussions regarding a contract extension have already begun, although Rodri has indicated that he is open to exploring options.