A dispute involving Erling Haaland has emerged after comments made during the campaign for the upcoming Real Madrid presidential election. The controversy centres on presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme, who publicly stated that he could bring the Manchester City striker to the Santiago Bernabeu if he succeeds in winning the vote.
The situation gained further attention when Riquelme presented a Real Madrid shirt bearing Haaland’s name and suggested that arrangements were already in place for the Norwegian forward to eventually move to the Spanish club.
According to information reported by Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have strongly rejected the claims and have separated themselves from the statements made during the campaign.
Riquelme outlines ambitious transfer plans
During his presentation, Riquelme spoke about the possibility of Haaland wearing the club’s famous number nine shirt. He described the idea as something that pleased him as a Real Madrid supporter and used it as part of his message to members ahead of the election.
The candidate also sought to underline his commitment by revealing a personal guarantee. He declared that if he failed to meet the promises he had made, he would personally cover the membership fees of 100,000 club members for the following season.
In addition to discussing Haaland, Riquelme referenced Manchester City midfielder Rodri. He claimed that talks with City regarding the Spanish midfielder would take place and insisted that Haaland had a release clause and wanted to join Real Madrid.
Manchester City reject the statements
The reaction from Manchester City has reportedly been swift. The Premier League club has categorically denied the claims connected to Haaland and is unhappy that the player’s name and image have been used as part of an election campaign.
Reports indicate that City are now examining possible legal measures following the public statements and promotional material linked to the presidential bid.
The club’s position differs sharply from the narrative presented by Riquelme, creating a growing dispute around the issue.
Claims challenged by sources close to the player
The matter has become more complicated due to reports concerning Haaland’s representatives. Suggestions that conversations had taken place with the striker’s camp have reportedly been disputed by individuals close to the player.
Those sources are said to have denied the existence of any agreement between Haaland and the presidential candidate, contradicting the claims made during the campaign.
As a result, a significant divide has emerged between the public declarations surrounding a potential transfer and the responses attributed to people connected to the Manchester City forward.