Bristol City's Latest Signing: Rio Cardines' Route to Ashton Gate
Bristol City has unveiled Rio Cardines, a 20-year-old full-back, as their ninth addition to Michael Skubala's squad. Cardines joins the Robins on a loan deal from Crystal Palace, with the aim of playing senior football, week in and week out, for the first time in his career.
Cardines' route to Bristol City began in the Arsenal academy, where he spent time before joining Crystal Palace as an Under-16 four years ago. He progressed through the ranks at Selhurst Park, forcing his way into the first team last season, featuring in the Europa Conference League, Carabao Cup, and Premier League.
Bruno Collingridge, founder of The Palace Way and writer for the News Shopper, has seen plenty of Cardines in action. He describes Cardines as 'an unlikely and likely success,' with a consistent, quiet, good-attitude, decent physical-attribute type player who has impressed so far.
What Makes Cardines Special?
Cardines is a versatile full-back who can play on both sides of the pitch. He is right-footed but has played left back and right back in a back four. He has a very good cross on him and is technically proficient. Set-pieces are a real asset of his, and he has hit the post from a free-kick in his debut for Trinidad and Tobago.
What Comes Next for Cardines?
Cardines will likely need some time to adapt to the Championship, but he has impressed in pre-season under Pierre Sage. He will aim to play senior football, week in and week out, for the first time in his career. The Robins' latest addition may not be the finished article, but he has impressed so far.
Bristol City's Current Form
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 12th in Championship, 62 pts, 17W-11D-18L from 46 games, recent form WLDLD. Goals this season: 59 scored, 59 conceded (0 goal difference). Title race: 33 points behind leaders Coventry. Next fixture: vs Watford (away, 2027-02-20).
