Manchester City have firmly rejected suggestions that Erling Haaland could join Real Madrid after a surprise claim emerged during the Spanish club’s presidential election campaign.
The speculation began when presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme appeared on Spanish television and promised to bring both Haaland and City midfielder Rodri to the Santiago Bernabeu if he wins the upcoming election.
Riquelme claimed that Haaland has a release clause in his Manchester City contract and suggested the Norway international would be interested in a move to Madrid. He also stated that Rodri could be persuaded to swap the Etihad Stadium for the Spanish capital.
However, City moved quickly to dismiss the comments.
Manchester City reject Haaland exit talk
In a statement released after the remarks gained attention in Spain, Manchester City made their position clear.
The Premier League club said the reports regarding Haaland’s future were untrue and insisted there is no contractual mechanism that would allow the striker to leave under the circumstances described.
City also indicated they are considering legal action over the use of the player’s image and name within the context of the election campaign.
The response leaves little doubt about the club’s stance as they prepare for another season with Haaland leading the attack.
Haaland camp also responds
The striker’s representatives were equally dismissive of the claims.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Haaland’s father Alf-Inge Haaland and agent Rafaela Pimenta released a joint statement denying the suggestion that the forward is pushing for a move to Madrid.
They described the situation as entertaining but stressed that the claims were not true, while wishing both presidential candidates well in the election process.
Haaland remains one of the most valuable players in world football after finishing the 2025/26 Premier League season as the division’s top scorer with 27 goals in 35 appearances.
What’s next?
With Haaland currently focused on international duty and preparing for the World Cup with Norway, there is no indication that his future is under discussion. Manchester City’s swift response suggests the club want to close down speculation before it gains momentum during the summer transfer window.
For now, both City and the player’s representatives appear united in delivering the same message: Haaland is not heading to Real Madrid.
What do you make of Manchester City’s response — should the club have ignored the claims or were they right to shut down the rumours immediately?
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