In an explosive interview with Spanish newspaper ABC, Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme has unveiled a series of bold campaign promises: pre-agreed deals for two global superstars, scathing criticism of the club’s handling of Xabi Alonso, and a direct challenge to incumbent Florentino Pérez.
Two Star Signings ‘Secured’
Riquelme, a 37-year-old renewable energy magnate, declared that his presidency would begin with a major transfer-market statement.
“I confirm, that if I’m Real Madrid president, there is an agreement in place with two major international superstars who will join the club,” he told ABC. “These are two players that the club really needs – essential for the short-, medium- and long-term sporting project.”
While declining to name the players immediately, the candidate said he would “probably” reveal their identities within two weeks, framing the double signing as the cornerstone of “the greatest transformation in the club’s 120-year history.”
Alonso’s Sacking Was a ‘Mistake’
Riquelme reserved some of his sharpest remarks for the board’s decision to fire Xabi Alonso after only three months in charge.
“Firing Xabi Alonso was a mistake,” he said bluntly. “How can you expect a coach to build a project in three months? He should’ve been backed by the club, and given the power to manage the dressing room.”
Alonso was dismissed following a Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona in January. His replacement, former Castilla manager Álvaro Arbeloa, was described by Riquelme as an “experiment” unworthy of a club of Madrid’s stature.
A Long-Term Vision for the Bench
Turning to the current head coach, Carlo Ancelotti – whose contract runs until 2026 – Riquelme signaled that continuity and authority are what Madrid truly lack. While he stopped short of naming a direct successor, he expressed strong admiration for Jürgen Klopp.
“I love Klopp,” Riquelme said. “He’s a good manager and a good coach. That is the profile of leader we need – someone who can build, not just patch up.”
A Direct Challenge to Pérez
Beyond sporting matters, Riquelme positioned himself as the candidate to prevent what he calls the “privatization” of the club. He accused the current administration of pushing Real Madrid toward external capital models and warned that upcoming elections could be among the last if statutes are changed.
“Florentino Pérez is the most important president in the modern history of Real Madrid, but the club needs a project for the future, not a short-term Band-Aid,” Riquelme said, adding an open challenge to debate Pérez “as many times as necessary, in a healthy and respectful way.”
The presidential election – the first contested race since Pérez returned to power in 2009 – is expected to take place in early June. Riquelme urged club members to “be brave” and listen to both projects, insisting he offers the only truly independent path forward.
