‘Real Madrid are in a serious financial crisis’: Enrique Riquelme issues big warning ahead of election

In an attempt to achieve the uphill task of beating Florentino Perez in tomorrow’s Real Madrid presidential election, Enrique Riquelme is relying on media attention and public stunts.

His wayward claims of bringing in Erling Haaland and Jurgen Klopp have already raised eyebrows, and according to rival Florentino Perez, public embarrassment to the club.

But Riquelme isn’t done yet and has made yet another controversial statement on the eve of the election.

Riquelme’s claim ahead of election

Real Madrid elections are in full swing. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Speaking ahead of the election tomorrow, Riquelme warned that Real Madrid are in the midst of a serious financial crisis, calling for full transparency and pledging to order an independent external audit if he wins the presidency.

“There is no greater democratic fraud than taking the members to the polls in an extraordinary manner without them knowing the club’s true situation.

“Now we understand the need and the urgency to sell. Real Madrid is in a very serious financial crisis,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

He also called for immediate action to open up the club’s books to scrutiny. “It is urgent to lift the carpets and open the windows at Concha Espina,” he said.

An uphill battle

Can Riquelme unseat Florentino Perez? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Despite all of Riquelme’s antics, though, history offers little encouragement for Riquelme.

After all, no first-time challenger has ever unseated a sitting Real Madrid president, and Florentino Perez holds a commanding advantage among the membership heading into polling day.

Whether Riquelme’s financial crisis claims will resonate with voters or simply add to the growing list of controversial statements that have defined his campaign remains to be seen.