Madrid could be sued over Haaland claim

Thursday, June 4, 2026

Manchester City is considering legal action after Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme claimed the club’s striker Erling Haaland has a release clause and could join Madrid if he wins the election. Manchester City denied these claims, stating Haaland’s contract contains no release clause and emphasizing the transfer is not possible, while also condemning the unauthorized use of Haaland’s image.

Manchester City is reportedly considering legal action following comments made by Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme regarding the future of striker Erling Haaland. During a television appearance on Wednesday, Riquelme, who is campaigning ahead of Real Madrid’s election on Sunday, stated that Haaland has a release clause and expressed confidence in signing the Norway international if he becomes president. He also displayed a Real Madrid jersey bearing Haaland’s name.

Manchester City swiftly rejected these claims. A club spokesperson labeled the reports as false, emphasizing that no such release clause exists in Haaland’s contract and that there is no possibility of the transfer materializing. The club confirmed it is assessing legal options in response to the use of Haaland’s image in this context.

Haaland joined Manchester City in 2022 and extended his contract in January 2025, committing to the club until 2034. Since his arrival, the 25-year-old has been a crucial figure for the team, scoring 162 goals in 198 appearances and contributing to two Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph. Haaland’s performances have earned him the Premier League Golden Boot award three times in four seasons.

City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak praised Haaland as a “superstar” and “goalscoring machine,” expressing confidence that the striker will secure the Ballon d’Or in the near future.

In addition to Haaland, Riquelme also mentioned his intention to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri if elected. The 29-year-old Spain international, whose contract with City runs until 2027, has previously been linked with a move to Real Madrid. However, Manchester City continues to regard Rodri as a key player, and the midfielder recently stated that he prefers not to discuss his future until after the World Cup.

The Real Madrid presidential election, which will determine the club’s leadership, takes place this Sunday. Riquelme’s bold transfer claims have added a contentious element to the campaign’s final days, drawing a firm response from Manchester City.