Real Madrid are the biggest club in the world by revenue and by reputation.
That is despite the fact that it has been two years since they last won a trophy of any kind, and the fact that dressing-room squabbles towards the end of last season made them a laughing stock in some quarters.
However, to judge by the promises made by the two candidates for the position of president, their ambition knows no limits.
The challenger, Enrique Riquelme, a 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur, has promised that, if he wins, he will buy Erling Haaland from Manchester City and pay the socios’ (members’) fees for life.
Not to be outdone, the incumbent, Florentino Pérez, has announced a budget of €150 million (£130 million) to buy an unnamed mystery player.
Pérez has form in this respect. When first elected back in 2000, he bought Luís Figo from Barcelona for €60 million, which was then a world-record fee, by triggering his release clause.
The problem with promises is that people then expect you to keep them. Manchester City have already reacted angrily to the links with Haaland, pointing out that he is under contract until 2034, and are threatening to take legal action against Real should any approach be made to him.
Meanwhile, whichever club the mystery player Pérez currently has in mind — suggestions are that it might be either Michael Olise of Bayern Munich or Declan Rice of Arsenal — is unlikely to allow one of its crown jewels to leave just because the Spanish club wants them.
But, as the election shows, modesty and respect are in short supply at Real Madrid, whilst there is arrogance and hubris to spare.
