Enrique Riquelme Makes Bold Transfers Promise in Real Madrid Presidential Bid

VALDEBEBAS, SPAIN - In a significant twist in the race for the presidency of Real Madrid, challenger Enrique Riquelme has made a striking pledge aimed at securing votes. During an appearance on the popular Spanish television show El Hormiguero, Riquelme revealed a notarized document in which he promised to sign notable players Erling Haaland and Rodri if elected. This ambitious commitment has raised the stakes in the ongoing election campaign.

Wearing a jersey with Haaland's name, Riquelme emphasized that the Manchester City striker has expressed both a desire to join Real Madrid and has a contractual clause that could facilitate the transfer. He stated, “I’ve signed a personal guarantee. If I don’t fulfill my promise of bringing the players I’ve announced, I will pay 100% of the membership fees of Real Madrid’s members.” However, shortly after his announcement, representatives for Haaland swiftly distanced the player from the pledge, declaring it untrue.

In addition to Haaland, Riquelme also mentioned plans to recruit midfielder Rodri and suggested appointing club legends Raúl González and Fernando Hierro to prominent roles within the organization. He highlighted the importance of having iconic figures in key positions, asserting, “If I’m president, Rodri will play for Real Madrid.”

The financial implications of Riquelme's promise are significant, as covering the annual membership fees for the club's over 98,000 members could exceed €12 million. With most adult members paying around €174 annually, the potential cost of this guarantee could reach approximately €12.3 million if he fails to deliver on his commitments.

Riquelme’s strategy seems reminiscent of Florentino Pérez’s famous 2000 promise to sign Luís Figo, where he also offered to refund season ticket holders if he failed to deliver. Riquelme is extending this concept to encompass two major signings while offering financial compensation to the entire membership base.

Beyond player acquisitions, Riquelme is framing his campaign as a defense of member ownership, criticizing any discussions about privatizing the club. He has advocated for maintaining the club's ties to its members and proposed initiatives like a "Members’ City" in Valdebebas and a temporary fee reduction until another Champions League title is achieved. As he seeks to position himself as a reformer, Riquelme has also called for greater transparency and accountability in the club’s governance.

While Riquelme has confirmed that José Mourinho is not his preferred coaching candidate, he has kept the identity of his actual choice under wraps, promising an announcement in the near future that he claims will resonate with the club’s supporters.