Full Breakdown
Manchester City Rejects Haaland Transfer Claims Amid Real Madrid Presidential Election
6/5/2026, 1:35:32 PM
Core Event: City Denies Haaland Transfer Rumors
Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme, on Wednesday television, pledged to sign Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and midfielder Rodri if elected. Manchester City responded Thursday, denying any chance of the moves and saying it is reviewing legal options over the use of its players’ images.
Background & Context: Contested Madrid Election
The election, set for Sunday, is the first contested Real Madrid presidential vote since 2006. Incumbent Florentino Pérez, 79, faces 37-year-old renewable-energy entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme. About 100,000 members will vote, and candidates use high-profile promises to sway voters.
Data & Statistics
Haaland signed a nine-and-a-half-year deal in January 2025, binding him to City until 2034. He has 162 goals in 198 games, with 27 league goals and 38 in all competitions this season, and three Premier League Golden Boots in four years. Rodri’s contract runs to 2027, leaving one season.
Official Statements & Responses
Manchester City’s spokesperson said the rumors are “untrue,” that no release clause exists, and that the club will consider legal action for the unauthorised use of player images. Haaland’s father Alfie and agent Rafaela Pimenta issued a statement calling the claims “entertaining but not true” and wishing both election candidates well.
Criticism & Opposition
City’s threat signals its opposition to using a player’s likeness for political gain without consent. The club also reiterated it has no intention of negotiating Rodri’s future during the summer transfer window.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Riquelme asserted Haaland’s contract contains a release clause, while City says none exists. Reports also differ on whether the deal is a ten-year contract or a nine-and-a-half-year agreement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He has a release clause and would like to join Real Madrid. If I become president, he will play for Real Madrid.” — Enrique Riquelme
- “There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual clause to enable it.” — Manchester City spokesperson
- “We are considering legal action for the use of our player image in this context.” — Manchester City spokesperson
- “All very entertaining but not true. We wish all the best for both candidates in the Real Madrid elections.” — Alfie Haaland and Rafaela Pimenta
Why It Matters
The clash shows how football transfer rumors can become political tools, raising questions about image-right enforcement and legal precedents that limit campaign use of player likenesses.
What’s Next
Real Madrid members will vote on Sunday. Manchester City said it will assess legal options after the result. Further statements from clubs and candidates are expected once the election is decided.
