Richard Ríos joins Al Ittihad on season-long loan from Benfica, no option to buy | OneFootball

Benfica and Al Ittihad have agreed a season-long loan for Richard Ríos for 2026/27, with no option to buy. The Colombia international, 26, departs Lisbon temporarily.

Record writes that Benfica will receive around 4 million euros for the deal, with Al Ittihad covering his full salary and offering a higher wage in Saudi Arabia.

After some initial hesitation, Ríos ultimately approved the move and accepted the project put forward by the Saudi club. He views leaving the Estádio da Luz as a route to regain prominence.

A reduced role in Marco Silva’s plans proved decisive. Used mainly from the bench this season, the midfielder sought a fresh challenge.

Signed from Palmeiras last summer for 27 million euros, Ríos delivered a strong first campaign, scoring eight goals and supplying six assists across 45 games.

He now heads to the Middle East on loan, while remaining contracted to Benfica beyond the 2026/27 season.

Source: Glorioso 1904

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”