A major controversy has erupted around Erling Haaland after Manchester City reacted to claims that the Norwegian striker could join Real Madrid if presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme wins the upcoming election.
According to an update from Fabrizio Romano, the Premier League side has completely distanced themselves from the claims and are now assessing their legal options following the use of Haaland’s image and name as part of a political campaign linked to the Real Madrid presidency.
It must be remembered that Riquelme recently made headlines by publicly promising to bring Haaland to the Santiago Bernabeu if elected president.
Riquelme made a promise
The candidate went a step further by presenting a Real Madrid shirt featuring the striker’s name and claiming that an agreement existed that would eventually bring the Manchester City star to Spain.
🚨 BREAKING: Manchester City consider LEGAL ACTION after Enrique Riquelme claims of Erling Haaland joining Real Madrid if he wins the elections.
The club has denied the information and exploring legal action for using their player’s image on purpose. pic.twitter.com/Rj37N7y99E
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 4, 2026
During his presentation, Riquelme stated, “As a Madrid fan, it makes me happy to see the number nine shirt.”
He also attempted to reinforce his commitment to supporters by saying, “I’ve signed a personal guarantee where, if I fail to fulfil my obligations, I’ll pay the membership fees of 100,000 members next season.”
The presidential candidate then made further claims regarding both Haaland and Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
“We’ll sit down with City on Monday to talk about Rodri. Haaland has a release clause, and he wants to come to Madrid.”
Erling Haaland of Manchester City
Riquelme promised to sign Haaland if elected president. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
However, those comments have not been received well within Manchester City.
Man City strike back
According to the latest information, the English club has categorically denied the claims being circulated and are unhappy with the use of their player’s image and identity in an election campaign.
The situation has become even more complicated because reports suggesting that discussions took place with Haaland’s camp have allegedly been contradicted by people close to the player.
Those sources have reportedly denied that any agreement exists between Haaland and the presidential candidate, creating a significant gap between the public claims and the responses coming from the player’s side.