Manchester City has issued a stern response, threatening legal action, following claims made by Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme. Riquelme, who is challenging current president Florentino Perez in an upcoming Sunday vote, publicly vowed to secure the signing of star striker Erling Haaland if elected. During an appearance on Spanish television, the 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur dramatically held up a Real Madrid shirt emblazoned with 'Haaland 9' and guaranteed the Norwegian's arrival.

Riquelme further escalated his promises by stating he would also sign Haaland's Manchester City teammate, Rodri. To underscore his commitment, Riquelme declared, "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." He asserted that "Haaland has a release clause, and he wants to come to Madrid," implying a clear path for the transfer should he win the election.

However, Manchester City swiftly refuted these claims. In a statement released shortly after Riquelme's interview, the club vehemently denied any possibility of Haaland moving to Real Madrid, labeling the stories as "untrue." A club spokesperson emphasized, "There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual clause to enable it." City also revealed their serious consideration of legal action due to "the use of our player image in this context," specifically referencing Riquelme's shirt stunt.

Erling Haaland himself appears content at the Etihad Stadium, having signed a substantial 10-year contract with City in January 2025. In an April interview with ESPN, he expressed being "super happy" with his current club. Furthermore, Haaland's agent, Rafaela Pimenta, and his father, Alfie, jointly dismissed the suggestions in a statement to ESPN, calling the entire situation "All very entertaining but not true" and wishing both candidates well in the Madrid elections, which mark the first contested Real Madrid presidential election since 2006.

Regarding Rodri, sources close to ESPN indicate that Manchester City has no intention of entertaining offers for the Spain international during the summer transfer window. Rodri, who has one year remaining on his current contract, is firmly in City's plans for the upcoming season. While initial discussions about a new deal have taken place, Rodri has reportedly stated he is keeping his options open. This type of high-profile player promise during an election campaign is considered a classic move in Spanish football politics, reminiscent of past pledges involving figures like Luis Figo and David Beckham.