UMVA has learned that a bombshell claim made by a Real Madrid presidential candidate has sparked a heated dispute with Manchester City, with the English club threatening legal action and vehemently denying the allegations.
Businessman Enrique Riquelme, who is vying to become the next president of Real Madrid, made a stunning assertion on live television that Manchester City star Erling Haaland would join the Spanish giants if he wins the election. Riquelme held up a Real Madrid shirt with 'Haaland 9' emblazoned on the back, fueling speculation and outrage.
Manchester City has angrily rejected Riquelme's claims, insisting that there is no contractual clause that would allow Real Madrid to sign Haaland, whose contract runs until 2034. A spokesperson for the Premier League club stated that the stories emerging from Spain are "untrue" and that there is no chance of Haaland making a move.
The controversy has escalated, with Manchester City threatening to take legal action over the unauthorized use of Haaland's image in Riquelme's TV stunt. Haaland's father, Alfie, and agent, Rafaela Pimenta, have also weighed in, dismissing Riquelme's claims as "entertaining but not true".
Riquelme has also made headlines with his pledge to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri, stating that he has spoken to the player's agent and will do everything in his power to bring him to Real Madrid if elected president. The candidate has put his reputation on the line, joking that he will pay 100% of membership costs for next season if he fails to deliver on his promises.
The current president of Real Madrid, Florentino Perez, has publicly expressed skepticism about Riquelme's claims, saying that he doesn't believe a word he says. Perez has hinted that he will announce new signings before Sunday, boasting that he has always generated excitement during his 23 years as president and that Real Madrid will attract top talent.
