Richard Rios: how did he go from playing barefoot in futsal to the heart of the union?
Colombian midfielder Richard Rios has signed with Al-Ittihad on loan from Benfica. His career path is notable for his transition from barefoot futsal in Colombia to professional football in Brazil and Europe.
Why it matters
Rios's story serves as an inspirational narrative of overcoming poverty through professional sports.
Richard Rios: how did he go from barefoot futsal to the heart of the midfield? FEATURES R. Rios Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC Al Ittihad Al Nassr FC Saudi Pro League Maritimo vs Benfica Maritimo Benfica Liga Portugal Colombia Colombia Saudi Arabia Portugal The Colombian player has a compelling human story.
Sometimes life refuses to make your dreams come true, not because it hates you, but for quite the opposite reason: it loves you and maps out a path for you that you had never once dreamt of. This is the life story of Colombian Richard Rios, the new Al-Ittihad midfielder.
Al-Ittihad confirmed the signing of Richard Rios early on Thursday morning. He arrives from Benfica on loan until the end of the current season, with no purchase option, according to press reports.
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