Torino have completed the permanent signing of left-back Rafa Obrador from Benfica, the Serie A club confirmed on Thursday. The 23-year-old was not included in Benfica’s squad list for their pre-season training camp, signalling his departure from the Portuguese side. Financial details of the transfer have not been disclosed by either club.
Obrador joined Benfica’s youth system in 2016 and progressed through their ranks, eventually making his first-team debut in January 2022. He made 34 appearances in all competitions for Benfica, primarily as a backup option at left-back. Last season, Obrador featured 16 times for the Portuguese champions, contributing one assist, though he struggled to consistently hold down a starting position under manager Roger Schmidt.
Torino have been seeking to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the upcoming Serie A campaign. The departure of Ola Aina to Nottingham Forest created a vacancy at left-back, and manager Ivan Juric identified Obrador as a suitable replacement. The Spaniard offers a dynamic attacking threat from full-back, alongside solid defensive capabilities, fitting Juric’s tactical approach.
Obrador’s move to Torino provides him with the opportunity to secure regular first-team football, something he was unable to guarantee at Benfica given the competition for places. The player will be looking to establish himself as a key member of Torino’s squad and contribute to their ambitions of challenging for European qualification. Torino finished eleventh in Serie A last season, and will hope to improve on that result with the addition of Obrador.
The transfer represents a pragmatic move for both clubs. Benfica are able to recoup a fee for a player who was not a regular starter, while Torino add a promising young talent to their squad. The deal allows Obrador to further develop his career in a competitive league, and potentially showcase his abilities on a larger stage. This signing is expected to bolster Torino’s defensive stability and provide additional width in attack.
