Richard Ríos's one-season loan to Al Ittihad was a personal decision by the player, according to Record. Marco Silva stated that he never told Ríos that he could not return after the end of the loan. Ríos arrived late and was aware it would be difficult to get playing time, as Benfica had signed Palhinha, another player for the central midfield position. Benfica retained three players for the number 8 position: Fredrik, Ríos, and Barreiro. The possibility of Ríos returning to Benfica remains open.

Al-Ittihad has officially announced the arrival of Richard Rios on loan from Benfica. The midfielder will play in Saudi Arabia for the remainder of the season. The loan deal has an estimated fee of 4 million euros and does not contain a purchase option.

Benfica and Al Ittihad have announced an agreement for the loan of Richard Ríos to the Saudi club for the 2026/27 season, with no purchase option. According to Record, Benfica will receive approximately 4 million euros for the loan of the 26-year-old player. Al Ittihad will also cover the Colombian international's salary, which will be considerably higher. After some initial resistance, Ríos has now agreed to the move.

Richard Ríos is traveling to Saudi Arabia today to complete his transfer to Al Ittihad. According to information accessed by A BOLA, the Saudi club will pay almost 4 million euros for the loan of Ríos, who will earn a salary higher than what he had at Luz. Ríos will undergo the customary medical exams and sign a contract in Saudi Arabia before being officially announced by Al Ittihad.