Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri has officially been announced as a new Aston Villa player following a season-long stint with Atletico Madrid in LaLiga in 2025-26.
Official: Ruggeri joins Aston Villa from Ateltico Madrid
Ruggeri has completed a permanent transfer to join Unai Emery’s Villa; reports from Fabrizio Romano claim that it has cost €25m plus up to €1.5m in bonuses to complete a deal for the 24-year-old. Other reports have the transfer fee slightly lower in the region of €20m.
Ruggeri will wear the no.13 shirt during his first season at Villa Park.
Ruggeri is Aston Villa’s second signing of the morning on Wednesday, following the announcement of the signing of Japan international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki in a €35m transfer from Serie A side Parma.
The former Italy U21 star is a product of the Atalanta academy system and spent around 14 years on La Dea’s books before joining Atletico Madrid on a five-year contract last summer. He made 47 appearances across all competitions with Atleti last season, including 26 in LaLiga and 15 in the Champions League.
He bolsters Villa’s options at left-back following the departure of Lucas Digne, who joined Paris Saint-Germain earlier this transfer window.
“Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of Matteo Ruggeri from Atlético Madrid,” read a statement on the club website.
“A UEFA Europa League winner with Atalanta in 2024, the left-back has completed a permanent transfer to B6.
“The 24-year-old graduated from the academy at Atalanta, making over 100 appearances and lifting European silverware before completing a move to Atletico last summer.
“On the international stage, he has represented Italy at several youth levels but, despite being called up, is yet to make his senior bow for the Azzurri. Welcome, Matteo!”
