Richard Rios injury leaves Al-Ittihad reshuffling midfield

Al-Ittihad midfielder Richard Rios has been diagnosed with a severe left-ankle sprain and damage to the fibular ligament after being forced off against Abha.

The Colombian underwent medical examinations and magnetic resonance imaging scans, which confirmed the extent of the injury. The club said he will now begin a programme of treatment and rehabilitation.

Rios was hurt in the opening minutes of the Saudi Pro League match following a challenge with Alemani Jory. He was unable to continue and left the pitch in pain, prompting concern among his team-mates and the coaching staff led by Yenz Vissing.

There is no confirmed date for his return, but initial expectations are that Rios will miss Al-Ittihad’s next two matches against Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates in the AFC Champions League Elite and Neom in the Saudi Pro League.

The club will assess his progress during rehabilitation before determining the full length of his absence. His eventual return to training and competitive action will depend on how he responds to treatment.

Al-Ittihad are scheduled to face Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite on 02 November 2026. The club’s Saudi Pro League schedule also lists a fixture on 05 November 2026 involving Abha and Al Shabab.

In Rios’ absence, Al-Ittihad’s coaching staff have decided to use Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy in his place for the upcoming Asian match. The change is intended to maintain balance in the centre of the pitch after the loss of an important player in that position.

The injury comes as Al-Ittihad prepare for a demanding run of domestic and continental fixtures. The coaching staff must now find a way to compensate for Rios’ absence while the club monitors his condition through the treatment programme.

Rios was substituted before he could complete the match against Abha, with the early setback adding to Al-Ittihad’s midfield concerns ahead of their next commitments. No final timetable has been announced for his recovery.