Ruggeri officially completes move to Aston Villa

Atletico Madrid has officially confirmed the transfer of Matteo Ruggeri to Aston Villa, as announced by the Spanish club on Wednesday, August 19. The Italian full-back departs after just one season in the capital.

The deal is concluded at €25 million in fixed fees plus €1.5 million in add-ons, a figure that exceeds the €22 million Atletico paid Atalanta the previous summer. Ruggeri had already spent several days in England completing the final administrative procedures. The agreement between clubs had been reached the previous week.

One season in the Spanish capital

During his time at the Rojiblanco outfit, Ruggeri made 47 appearances and provided 7 assists. His standout performances came in European competition, particularly in the Champions League knockout ties against FC Barcelona. However, according to Mundo Deportivo, his defensive work revealed inconsistencies in one-on-one duels and set-piece situations—aspects that failed to align with Atletico's defensive principles.

The arrival of left-back Alejandro Grimaldo expedited his exit. Aston Villa has offered him a contract through 2031 and a salary of €4 million annually net, double what he earned at Atletico. The Spanish club wished him "success in his future professional and personal projects."