Manchester City are considering legal action after claims were made in Spain that striker Erling Haaland could join Real Madrid in the future. The Premier League club has strongly denied the reports and says there is no truth behind the statements.
The controversy began when Enrique Riquelme, a candidate in Real Madrid’s upcoming presidential election, appeared on Spanish television and promised that Haaland would play for the Spanish giants if he became president. During the interview, he even displayed a Real Madrid shirt with Haaland’s name on the back.
Riquelme claimed that the Norwegian striker has a release clause in his contract and would like to move to Madrid. However Manchester City quickly rejected those comments and issued a firm response. The club stated that there is no such clause in Haaland’s contract and that the transfer claim is completely false.
City also expressed concern about the use of Haaland’s image during the election campaign. Club officials revealed they are now looking at possible legal options because they believe the player’s image was used without permission.
The reaction was not limited to Manchester City. Haaland’s father, Alfie Haaland and his agent, Rafaela Pimenta, also dismissed the comments. They described the claims as untrue and made it clear that there was no agreement or plan involving a move to Real Madrid.
Haaland remains one of City’s most important players and recently committed his future to the club with a long-term contract. Since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 he has become one of the world’s most feared strikers and has helped City win major trophies.
Riquelme also claimed he would try to sign City midfielder Rodri if elected, adding more attention to the situation. However, there is currently no indication that either player is preparing to leave Manchester.
With Real Madrid’s presidential election approaching, the comments have created headlines across Europe. For now though, Manchester City’s position is clear: Haaland is not for sale, there is no release clause, and the club is prepared to defend its interests if necessary.
