"It's a huge joy, a giant step forward"

INTERVIEW

Richard Ríos is the latest signing for Sport Lisboa e Benfica!  In his first statements as an Eagles player, exclusively to BTV, the 25-year-old midfielder praised the ambition to “fight for titles.”

Officially announced and presented on Tuesday, July 22, as a new signing for the reds' professional football team, the Colombian international thanked Benfica fans for their warm welcome, highlighting the usefulness of his experience in futsal, as well as his fluency in Portuguese.

"It's a huge joy for me and my family. It's a giant step forward in my career. It was a dream to play in Europe, and now being at a club as big as Benfica is something that is very rewarding for me and my family," he said.

You played futsal when you were younger and even represented the Colombian national team. Did playing futsal shape your football style in any way?

Absolutely. I think everyone knows that I come from futsal, it's no secret. And rather than hindering me, it actually helps me a lot on the pitch. Many of my characteristics come directly from futsal, so it's something that's part of me and that I'll continue to do.

You speak perfect Portuguese. Do you think that will help you adapt to Benfica and Portugal?

Of course, definitely. That will be something that will help a lot. Not only off the field, but on the field as well. Communication with my teammates, with all the staff and the entire squad, I think it will help me a lot, it will be something that will be very helpful for me.

What are your expectations for your first season with the eagle on your chest, and also for your debut in European football?

The expectation is to fight for titles. In every competition we participate in, I am certain that we will always strive to win, and this season will be no different. I hope it will be an important debut for me in terms of sports, and that I will be able to assist my teammates and the Club.

Benfica fans were very enthusiastic about the possibility of Richard Ríos playing for the club. What can you say about that, and what message can you leave for Benfica fans?

First, I want to say thank you. I think that was something that really moved me, the messages they sent me to come here. It helped me a lot and showed me how much they care about me. I hope to repay that on the field in every game and every training session. The message is to always support the team, regardless of the moment, because we will be representing you on the pitch.