Inside Real Madrid’s election as Riquelme makes Florentino roll up his sleeves | OneFootball

Florentino Pérez’s surprise 12 May election call ignited a combative race, with Riquelme drawing the president into a full campaign. Voting is on 7 June in Valdebebas.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Enrique Riquelme secured about 194 million euros in guarantees via Andbank after Spanish banks refused, pushing Pérez towards his first ballot in 20 years. Riquelme opposed privatisation, promised institutional renewal and declared on 21 May before filing on 23.

He opened a base by the Bernabéu on 25 May, targeted socios and demanded a public debate. Pérez avoided his name, questioned his solvency and portrayed him as a Trojan horse.

On 27 May Riquelme unveiled his City of the Member plan for Valdebebas, plus a 50 percent fee cut if no Champions League, improved ticketing and backing for the women’s team. That evening Pérez launched with Ronaldo Nazario, Roberto Carlos and Santiago Solari, linking Riquelme to Ramón Calderón’s era.

On 1 June Pérez outlined a club controlled subsidiary to admit minority investors. Riquelme warned of privatisation and even the club’s last elections, while Pérez said the club does not need money and the move protects members’ future assets. Riquelme vowed to sign Rodri if elected, and Pérez promised a members-only shirt, La Socia.

Riquelme named Raúl and Hierro for key roles and pledged Haaland or to pay 15 million euros in members’ dues. Pérez notarised a members-first pledge and flagged a 150 million euro bid, while Riquelme’s Klopp push faded after his adviser said he is content at Red Bull.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo