BARCELONA, Spain — The race for Real Madrid’s presidency has intensified as both contenders ramp up their campaigns before Sunday’s crucial vote by club members.
Current president Florentino Pérez, 79, has made Jose Mourinho a centerpiece of his reelection bid, suggesting the Portuguese manager’s return to the club depends on electoral success. Mourinho previously managed Madrid between 2010 and 2013.
On Wednesday evening, Pérez posted on X with the message “MOUcha historia por hacer” (“So MOUch history to make”), accompanied by footage of Mourinho saying “Si” (“Yes”).
Reports indicate Mourinho was already being considered for a comeback before Pérez announced the elections last month. The potential appointment would see him replace Alvaro Arbeloa following the team’s second consecutive season without capturing a major championship.
Challenger Enrique Riquelme, a 37-year-old renewable energy businessman, made waves during a late-night television appearance Wednesday by declaring his plans to acquire Haaland from Manchester City. The show’s host displayed a mock Madrid jersey bearing Haaland’s name as the audience cheered.
“Haaland has a clause (in his contract) and wants to come to Madrid,” Riquelme stated during the broadcast. He also expressed interest in negotiating for Spain midfielder Rodri.
Manchester City responded forcefully on Thursday, issuing a statement that called the Spanish reports “untrue.”
“There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual clause to enable it,” City declared, adding they were “considering legal action for the use of our player image in this context.”
Haaland recently extended his City contract through 2034 in January 2025, securing one of soccer’s most valuable and longest agreements for a Premier League athlete. The club has kept any buyout clause details confidential.
City’s statement did not address Riquelme’s comments regarding Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner whose current deal runs until 2027.
