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Riquelme promises Haaland, Rodri signings in Madrid election

ESPN Soccer •
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Real Madrid members will vote Sunday between renewable‑energy entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme and long‑time president Florentino Pérez. Riquelme, 37, used Wednesday’s appearance on “El Hormiguero” to pledge signings of Erling Haaland and midfield anchor Rodri from Manchester City, promising to refund every member’s fee if either deal falls through. He also unveiled club legends Raúl González and Fernando Hierro as sporting director and academy chief.

Rodri, whose contract runs until 2025, has one year left on his City deal. Riquelme told ESPN the Ballon d’Or‑winner fits a position where Madrid urgently need reinforcement, and said talks with the player's agent are underway. He added he would cover full membership costs next season should either target slip away, underscoring the high stakes of his campaign.

Pérez’s campaign countered with a social‑media video confirming José Mourinho will return as head coach if he retains the presidency. The post also hinted at a free‑agent deal for defender Ibrahima Konaté, whom Pérez described as “one of the world’s best”. With both candidates promising marquee arrivals, Sunday's ballot could reshape Madrid’s squad for the first time since 2006.