Benfica on alert as Riquelme gains ground against Florentino Pérez in Real Madrid race | OneFootball

Enrique Riquelme has gained traction in the Real Madrid presidential race, a development that could affect Benfica. Marca states that a rapid poll in the Spanish capital captured fan sentiment ahead of Sunday’s vote.

The survey drew more than 130,000 responses in a few hours, with 64 per cent expecting Florentino Pérez to be re-elected and 36 per cent backing Riquelme.

Pérez has pitched José Mourinho, still Benfica head coach, and Ibrahima Konaté, out of contract at Liverpool, as early headline moves.

Riquelme has promised the signings of Erling Haaland and Rodri from Manchester City, and said Raúl González would become sporting director and Fernando Hierro would lead the club’s academy.

Despite Pérez’s polling lead, 57 per cent of respondents judged Riquelme’s campaign more effective and gaining ground in recent weeks.

Haaland has become a central issue. About 65 per cent believe an announcement regarding the Norway striker could decisively influence the result, while only 18 per cent see the Mourinho pledge as a decisive boost for Pérez.

A large majority, 82 per cent, feel there are more appealing options for Madrid’s bench. Within that, 80 per cent favour Jürgen Klopp, 11 per cent Mikel Arteta, with the remaining nine per cent citing others.

Source: Glorioso 1904