Matteo Ruggeri has spoken about his decision to join Aston Villa, saying he was instantly taken by the club’s ambitious plans for the future. The Italian full-back moved to the West Midlands in a deal worth €25 million plus add-ons, a major milestone in his rapidly developing career.

A new chapter at Villa Park

Aston Villa’s newest signing, Ruggeri, has spoken of his great pride after completing his transfer to the Premier League from Atletico Madrid. The 24-year-old joined the Spanish club last season on a five-year contract and made 47 appearances in all competitions, registering seven assists, before sealing his summer move to Villa. After rising quickly through the ranks at Atalanta, he is now keen to establish himself as an important player under Unai Emery.

‘I am very happy to be here,’ Ruggeri told Aston Villa’s official media channels. ‘It’s very exciting for me to be part of this club; I can’t wait to meet my new teammates and start this adventure. I was really enchanted by the project of the team, I know it’s a huge league with big expectations, and looking at recent results, I had no doubts about saying yes and being part of this club.’

European pedigree and tactical fit

Ruggeri arrives at Villa Park with significant experience at the top level, having played regularly in European competitions. Across his spells with Atalanta and Atletico Madrid, the adaptable left-back made 23 Champions League appearances and contributed three assists. His capacity to play either as a conventional full-back or as a wing-back in a five-man midfield gives Emery useful tactical options.

‘I’ve definitely watched lots of Aston Villa games, and was really impressed by the intensity that the coach wants, the quality of the football he demands, and this is why I had no doubts about coming here to begin defending these club colours. Last season was important for me, and I hope to do just as well with Aston Villa, and then win a trophy with this club,’ Ruggeri continued.

International ambitions and defensive idols

In spite of his strong club performances — including winning the 2023-24 Europa League with Atalanta and reaching the Copa del Rey final with Atletico Madrid last season — along with several call-ups to the Italy squad, Ruggeri is still waiting for his first senior cap for Italy. His switch to the Premier League is being viewed as a strategic move to attract the attention of the national team coaching staff. Ruggeri has also long drawn inspiration from iconic players, naming one of football’s greatest defenders as his childhood idol.

‘As a child I really liked Paolo Maldini as a left-back, but over the years I didn’t have a specific player to model myself on. He was the one I looked up to when I was a kid,’ the defender said.

Anticipation for the Villa Park atmosphere

The Italian defender may not have to wait long for his debut, with Villa due to take on Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend before a major clash with Arsenal. Ruggeri has already been familiarising himself with his new home, taking in the passionate support that awaits him at Villa Park.

‘I saw many videos and photos of the stadium, and I can’t wait to play there, because I saw the fans are incredible. I can’t wait to get to know the atmosphere,’ he said. With the club carrying strong momentum after their recent European success and domestic progress, Ruggeri joins a squad full of confidence.