Ríos addresses Benfica exit, says he had little time to work | OneFootball

Richard Ríos has left Lisbon for Saudi Arabia to join Al Ittihad on loan from Benfica, after logistical issues delayed his trip. The Colombia international departed late on Thursday morning.

Before boarding, he addressed supporters. "I want to thank everyone for their support. I have nothing to complain about. I still have a contract with Benfica, who knows, in the end we might be back here," he told CNN Portugal.

Ríos said he had had little time to work with Marco Silva, but he is content with the new challenge and ready for Saudi football. "I am very happy," he added.

Benfica have confirmed the loan, which brings in around four million euros and shifts the midfielder’s wages entirely to Al Ittihad. He will also earn a considerably higher salary in Saudi Arabia.

Signed from Palmeiras last summer for €27 million, he departs temporarily after a season and a bit. Ríos made 45 appearances, scoring eight goals and supplying six assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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