Real Madrid Presidential Candidate Riquelme Targets Rodri in Ambitious Project
Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme has intensified his campaign promises with a bold attempt to bring Manchester City midfielder Rodrigo, widely known as Rodri, to the Santiago Bernabéu if he is elected president.
The move forms part of what he describes as a long-term sporting restructuring plan aimed at restoring Real Madrid’s dominance in Europe through elite midfield reinforcement.
Riquelme, who is challenging incumbent Florentino Pérez, has already positioned himself as a disruptive figure in the election race.
His previous statements regarding high-profile targets, including Manchester City forward Erling Haaland, sparked controversy and drew significant attention from the English club, which reportedly considered legal action over claims made during his campaign.
Now, Rodri has become the central focus of his latest footballing ambition, with Riquelme insisting that conversations have already been initiated at an early stage.
“We spoke with Rodri’s agent. I know perfectly well that we then have to talk to City, I said that yesterday,” he stated, emphasizing that proper procedures would be followed despite the boldness of the claim.
Talks With Agent Already Underway Amid Contract Situation
According to Riquelme, preliminary discussions have already begun with Rodri’s representatives, suggesting that groundwork is being laid even before any formal negotiations with Manchester City.
He insisted that his team is aware of the structured approach required in modern transfers, particularly for a player of Rodri’s importance at City. The Spanish international remains under contract until the summer of 2027, although reports indicate that City are actively pushing for an extension.
At the same time, the midfielder is said to be delaying any final decision on his future until after the upcoming World Cup, amid growing external interest.
Riquelme’s confidence in initiating dialogue has raised eyebrows, particularly given Rodri’s status as one of City’s most influential players and a recent Ballon d’Or winner.
He acknowledged the complexity of the situation but maintained that ambition should not be constrained by perceived obstacles.
Rodri’s circumstances are different from Haaland’s, but we have to talk to City. We have the utmost respect for the club,” he added.
The candidate’s remarks suggest a strategy built on early positioning rather than immediate execution, banking on long-term uncertainty in player contracts and shifting priorities within elite squads.
Haaland Ambition, City Tensions and Growing Scrutiny
Riquelme’s pursuit of Rodri cannot be separated from the wider context of his previous transfer rhetoric, particularly his public admiration for Erling Haaland. Earlier declarations regarding the Norwegian striker were met with strong resistance from Manchester City, with reports indicating the club viewed the comments as inappropriate and potentially destabilizing.
That episode has followed him into the current phase of his campaign, adding scrutiny to his latest claims. Despite this, Riquelme continues to project confidence, framing his approach as part of a broader vision to restore Real Madrid’s competitive edge through marquee signings.
The pattern has created a narrative of tension between ambition and diplomacy, with critics questioning whether such public declarations are compatible with respectful relations between European giants.
Still, Riquelme has doubled down on his stance, insisting that engagement with clubs like City would always be conducted properly if he assumes office. His supporters argue that his willingness to speak openly about elite targets reflects intent and seriousness, while detractors see it as premature campaigning that risks unnecessary friction.