Ex-Barça Defender Poised for La Liga Comeback
The transfer market is heating up as La Liga teams look to strengthen their squads. One player drawing attention is Chadi Riad, a left-footed central defender poised for a potential comeback.
Chadi Riad: Key Facts
- Name: Chadi Riad
- Position: Left-footed central defender
- Age: 22
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Current Club: Crystal Palace
- Previous Clubs: FC Barcelona, Real Betis, Mallorca
- Transfer Fees: €3 million (to Betis), €15 million (to Crystal Palace)
Potential Return to La Liga
As the winter transfer window approaches its deadline, Riad’s name has surfaced in discussions among La Liga clubs. Specifically, Real Mallorca is interested in securing his services due to their current defensive struggles.
Real Mallorca has been actively assessing their options, especially after conceding 33 goals in 21 matches. The urgency arises from injuries within their squad, including Antonio Raíllo’s clavicle injury.
Riad’s Development
Riad began his career in the Mallorca youth academy before joining FC Barcelona’s youth system during the 2019-20 season. He spent four formative years there, making his first-team debut under coach Xavi Hernández in the 2022-23 season.
His impressive performances caught the attention of Real Betis, leading to a transfer worth €3 million. Following his success at Betis, Crystal Palace acquired him for €15 million in the summer of 2024, benefiting Barcelona with a 50% cut from the transfer.
Current Situation at Crystal Palace
Currently, however, Riad has faced challenges at Crystal Palace, where he has logged only 131 minutes of play this season. A mere 14 of those minutes have come in the Premier League.
Given the limited playing time and the ongoing difficulties at Crystal Palace, a move back to Spain could be the perfect opportunity for Riad. Returning to Mallorca, the club that nurtured his early career, may help him regain his form and confidence.
As teams like Real Mallorca explore their defensive options, Chadi Riad’s potential return to La Liga remains one of the intriguing stories in the current transfer window.
