Legal Showdown: Manchester City Challenges Real Madrid Candidate Over Haaland Claims
Manchester City is contemplating legal action against Enrique Riquelme, a candidate for the Real Madrid presidency, after he showcased a Madrid shirt with Erling Haaland’s name during a recent television appearance. Riquelme asserted that a clause in Haaland's contract would permit him to sign the striker if elected. In his remarks on El Hormiguero, aired on Wednesday, Riquelme stated that Haaland, who signed a record nine-and-a-half-year deal in January 2025, harbors ambitions of joining Real Madrid. He also claimed that Rodri would leave Manchester City to join the Spanish giants. Riquelme confidently declared, "Haaland has a release clause and he wants to come to Madrid." In response, Manchester City issued a statement on Thursday, refuting Riquelme's claims: "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." Haaland’s father, Alfie, and agent, Rafaela Pimenta, echoed this sentiment, labeling Riquelme's assertions as "entertaining but not true." Riquelme further emphasized his intentions regarding Rodri, labeling him a top player and a Ballon d’Or winner, while committing to deliver both players if elected, even offering a personal notarized guarantee. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s recent departure as City’s manager may lead some players to reevaluate their futures. On Monday, Rodri commented, "I’m very calm, I know exactly where I stand..." His contract is set to expire next summer. In another development, City had an initial bid for Elliot Anderson rejected by Nottingham Forest, with Hugo Viana, the sporting director, expected to return with an enhanced offer, as Forest values the 23-year-old at around £100m.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-06-04