Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme has pledged to bring Manchester City stars Erling Haaland and Rodri to the Santiago Bernabéu if he wins the upcoming club election on June 7.
Riquelme is challenging incumbent Florentino Pérez, who has led the club for 17 years.
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The challenger aims to capitalize on the recent appointment of head coach José Mourinho to build momentum for his campaign.
Haaland and Rodri Targeted
“Haaland has a release clause and wants to join Real Madrid,” Riquelme said.
The Norwegian striker is under contract with City until 2034 but reportedly has exit conditions in his deal.
Regarding Rodri, Riquelme stated: “If I’m Real Madrid president, a player like Rodri will play for Real Madrid.”
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He acknowledged that City deserves respect, as the Ballon d'Or winner has one year left on his contract.
Riquelme added: “I love that player,” referring to Rodri.
These declarations add pressure on Manchester City, which is already undergoing a transition after the departures of Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and most backroom staff.
Rodri is reportedly holding out for an improved contract offer and has deferred decisions about his future until after the FIFA World Cup.
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“You can’t ignore the best clubs in the world,” he said in March, highlighting uncertainty that City's director of football Hugo Viana must manage.
