Manchester City have strongly rejected claims that Erling Haaland could join Real Madrid, warning they may pursue legal action after the club’s presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme used the striker’s image as part of his election campaign.
The controversy erupted after Riquelme, who is challenging long-serving president Florentino Perez in Sunday’s Real Madrid presidential election, publicly promised to sign both Haaland and Rodri if elected.
Appearing on Spanish television, the 37-year-old businessman held up a Real Madrid shirt bearing “Haaland 9” and insisted the Manchester City striker was destined for the Santiago Bernabeu.
“If I break my promises regarding either of these players, I’ve signed a guarantee where I’d pay 100% of membership costs for next season,” said the Los Blancos presidential candidate.
“Haaland has a release clause, and he wants to come to Madrid.”
The Cityzens wasted little time responding to the comments, categorically denying the claims and making it clear that Haaland is not available for transfer.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Premier League champions dismissed suggestions of a release clause and warned that legal action is under consideration.
“The stories which have emerged from Spain regarding the future of Erling Haaland are untrue,” a club spokesperson said in a statement.
“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.”
The speculation comes despite Haaland signing a record-breaking 10-year contract with Manchester City in January 2025.
The Norwegian striker has repeatedly expressed his happiness at the Etihad Stadium and remains a central figure in City’s long-term plans.
In an interview earlier this year, Haaland described himself as “super happy” at the club, further reinforcing City’s confidence that their star forward is fully committed to the project.
Haaland’s representatives also poured cold water on the rumours.
In a joint statement, his agent Rafaela Pimenta and father Alfie Haaland laughed off suggestions that the striker could move to Madrid depending on the outcome of the election.
“All very entertaining but not true. We wish all the best for both candidates in the Madrid elections.”
Riquelme’s promises extended beyond Haaland, with the presidential hopeful also claiming he would bring Spain midfielder Rodri to Madrid.
However, City are equally determined to retain the Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder.
The club reportedly has no intention of entertaining offers for Rodri during the summer transfer window and has already opened preliminary discussions regarding a new contract.
While Rodri has acknowledged he is keeping his future options open, Manchester City remain confident the midfielder will continue to be a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s squad heading into next season.
The saga has added a political twist to Real Madrid’s presidential race, but Manchester City’s response leaves little room for interpretation.
With Haaland tied to a long-term contract and Rodri considered untouchable, City’s message is clear: neither player is heading to Madrid anytime soon.
As election promises dominate headlines in Spain, the Premier League champions appear ready to defend both their players and their interests through every available avenue.
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