Richard Ríos Moves to Al Ittihad, Leaving Benfica
The Colombian former Palmeiras player goes out on loan for 2026/27
Colombian midfielder Richard Ríos, who arrived at Benfica from Palmeiras, is now joining Saudi Arabia's Al Ittihad on loan through the end of the 2026/27 season. The Saudi club will pay 3 million euros and cover the player's full salary.
Richard Ríos leaves Benfica on loan
Al Ittihad announced the signing of Ríos for 2026/27. The agreement does not include a purchase option. Benfica temporarily reduces costs on the 26-year-old player, who arrived at the Portuguese club last year.
Loan fee and salary coverage
The Saudi club will pay 3 million euros (approximately R$ 18 million) for the loan and will take full responsibility for the 26-year-old player's salary.
Track record at Palmeiras and Benfica
Before arriving in Portuguese football, Ríos rose to prominence playing for Palmeiras. He established himself in the São Paulo squad and caught the eye of the European market. At Benfica, he played 51 matches, scoring eight goals and providing six assists.
Contract and player's future
The loan contract runs for one season, with neither an option nor an obligation to buy. Ríos is under contract with Benfica until June 2030, making his return to the Portuguese club likely at the end of the loan spell.
Player's reaction
Prior to departure, Ríos said his goodbyes: “I am very happy, but I don't know what I'm going to find. I'm thankful for all the affection I received here.”
Interest from other clubs
In addition to Al Ittihad, Turkey's Besiktas and England's Hull City showed interest in Ríos, but negotiations did not advance.
With information from ge, Band, Terra.
Source: ge, Band, Terra