Real Madrid’s presidential contenders have intensified their campaigns, with Enrique Riquelme pledging to sign Erling Haaland and Rodri if elected, while rival Florentino Pérez confirmed plans to bring back José Mourinho as manager.
Members of the Spanish giants will vote on Sunday to decide between Riquelme, a 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur, and Pérez, 79, who has dominated the club’s leadership for 23 of the last 26 years.
The election marks the first contested presidential race at the club since 2006 and comes after Real Madrid finished two consecutive seasons without winning a major trophy.
Riquelme, speaking on Antena 3’s “El Hormiguero”, said he was confident of securing Haaland and Rodri from Manchester City and even promised to cover members’ subscription fees if he failed.
“If I break my promises regarding either of these players, I’ve signed a guarantee where I’d pay 100% of membership costs for next season,” Riquelme said. “Haaland has a release clause, and he wants to come to Madrid.”
However, the striker’s father, Alfie Haaland, and his agent Rafaela Pimenta dismissed the claims in a joint statement, saying: “All very entertaining but not true. We wish all the best for both candidates in the Madrid elections”.
Haaland remains under contract with Manchester City until 2034 following a highly lucrative deal signed in January 2025, which reportedly removed any release clause.
Riquelme also described Rodri as a priority target, insisting the midfielder fits the club’s long-term plans and claiming discussions have already taken place with his representatives.
“I’ll do everything possible,” he said.
Meanwhile, Pérez’s campaign confirmed via social media that José Mourinho will return as head coach if he wins the election, with a video showing the Portuguese manager wearing a Real Madrid shirt and saying “yes.”
Pérez also told Diario AS that Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté is close to joining the club on a free transfer, adding that more defensive reinforcements could follow if he remains in charge.