Real Madrid presidential hopeful Enrique Riquelme appeared on *El Hormiguero* and pledged that, if elected, he would activate Erling Haaland’s release clause to bring the striker to the Bernabéu. He showed a Real shirt labelled “Haaland 9” and also promised to sign teammate Rodri, vowing to reimburse members’ fees should either promise fail. The election takes place Sunday.

Manchester City fired back, saying there is “no chance” Haaland will leave the Etihad before 2034 and no clause permits such a move. The club announced it is considering legal action over the unauthorised use of its player’s image, warning of potential damages. Agent Rafaela Pimenta and Alfie Haaland dismissed the Madrid rumors as “entertaining but not true.”

Incumbent president Florentino Perez countered Riquelme’s stunt by posting a video confirming José Mourinho’s return as manager should he retain the club’s top job. The election, the first contested since 2006, pits Perez against the 37‑year‑old businessman and will decide Real Madrid’s leadership and possible transfer policy ahead of the new season.

Keeping Haaland until 2034 secures City’s attacking core for the next decade, reinforcing their Champions League ambitions. Madrid’s flirtation underscores the president‑election’s growing role in transfer narratives, but the striker’s contract remains a non‑issue for now. Both clubs will focus on domestic campaigns as the vote approaches.