Benfica’s Ríos: Transfer Value Doubled, Says Santos

After a complex start in Portuguese football, Colombian Richard Ríos” type=”text/html” data-cms-ai=”0″>Richard Rios has managed to establish itself as one of the most important pieces of the Benfica in the current season. The midfielder from Antioquia, who joined the Lisbon team from Palmeiras in Brazil in exchange for 27 million euros, has been able to respond to the trust with performance, regularity and prominence on the playing field.

In his first months in Portugal, Ríos had to adapt to a new rhythm, different tactical demands and the pressure of one of the biggest clubs in Europe. However, as the days went by, the Colombian National Team player gained ground until he became a regular in the starting eleven of Benfica, a team that is currently coached by José Mourinho.

The numbers support its evolution. So far in the campaign, Richard Ríos has played 28 games, with a record of three goals and two assists, in addition to 2,308 minutes on the court.figures that reflect his importance in the Portuguese coach’s scheme. His physical display, ability to recover balls and arrival in the rival area have made him one of the most complete midfielders in the tournament.

Richard Ríos received praise from former coach

The good moment of the Antioquian on Portuguese soil has not gone unnoticed. One of those who referred to his growth was Mozart Santos Batista, the coach who directed him during his time at Guaraní in Brazil, a club where Ríos made an important leap in his career.

In dialogue with the Portuguese newspaper ‘O Jogo’, the current Ceará coach spared no praise for the Colombian. “Richard Ríos is worth every euro that Benfica paid. He is one of the best 8 in the world”he stated forcefully. Furthermore, he predicted a promising future for the midfielder: ““Benfica will receive offers of at least double what it invested.”he stated, highlighting his international projection.

When will Benfica play again?

On matchday 16 of the Portuguese Primeira Liga, Benfica will return to action this Sunday, December 28, when it visits Braga in a key duel. The commitment is scheduled for 1:00 pm (Colombian time).

Currently, the Lisbon team is in third position in the table, eight points behind the leader Porto, so a victory will be essential to stay in the fight and not lose track of the ‘dragons’.