Real Madrid rule out Haaland even if Man City punished, says Spain

Real Madrid have decided not to pursue a transfer for Erling Haaland even if Manchester City receive a likely punishment, Spanish outlet Sport reported on 28 September 2026. The club cite Haaland’s long‑term contract without an exit clause and logistical challenges as reasons for staying put.

Contractual and logistical hurdles

The analysis, written by Stephen Killen, Senior Sports Content Creator at Sport, was published at 06:00 on 28 Sep 2026 and included two Images. It notes that Real Madrid have not planned a move for Haaland because his contract runs for several years and contains no exit clause. The club also flag logistical difficulties despite Haaland’s former Dortmund teammate Jude Bellingham being a close friend. The piece recorded a strong View count within minutes of posting.

Madrid’s sporting blueprint currently centres on Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr., leaving little room for a striker of Haaland’s profile. Club insiders also argue that the Norwegian would not fit the existing mould. The recent big‑money arrival of Yan Diomande further complicates any potential reshuffle.

City’s legal battle and possible sanctions

Barcelona have been mentioned as a more natural destination for the Premier League star, given their style of play. The report adds that Haaland could contemplate leaving Manchester City next summer if the sanctions prove severe. Manchester City’s legal team is expected to lodge an appeal against the verdict.

Real Madrid eye Haaland as City’s financial woes loom

The legal dispute with the Premier League concluded with MAN City found guilty of 114 charges. Possible punishments range from fines and points deductions to expulsion from the top flight or stripping of titles won between 2009-10 and 2017-18. The club’s supporters now face an agonising wait for the final sanctions.

Former City boss Roberto Mancini dismissed the verdict, insisting the club is not guilty of any wrongdoing. His comments were made in response to the Spanish report’s findings.

Football finance expert Kieran Maguire told TalkTV that a points deduction is the most likely outcome, citing the precedents set by Nottingham Forest and Everton. He added that clubs missing out on European places could also seek financial compensation for lost prize money.