Richard Rios set to miss Al-Ittihad matches until January after ankle injury

Richard Rios is expected to remain sidelined until January after suffering a serious ankle injury, reports in Saudi Arabia say.

The Al-Ittihad midfielder damaged his left ankle just eight minutes into the team’s match against Abha on Friday, 30 October, in the 12th round of the Roshn Saudi League.

Saudi newspaper Okaz reported that the injury will keep the Colombia international out of the Jeddah club’s squad until January next year.

Rios is therefore set to miss a number of important fixtures, including Al-Ittihad’s derby against city rivals Al-Ahli on 11 December.

The 26-year-old is currently undertaking a rehabilitation programme at Brazilian club Palmeiras as he works towards returning to competitive action as soon as possible.

Rios joined Al-Ittihad during the previous summer transfer window from Portuguese club Benfica on loan until the end of the current season.

Since moving to Al-Anma Stadium, he has made nine appearances for the “Tigers” in all competitions. He has scored once and provided two assists.