Atlético Madrid Sign Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta in €20 Million Transfer

Atlético Madrid have signed Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta. They will pay €17 million, plus €3 million in bonuses, for the 22-year-old. Ruggeri has signed a contract until June 2030, providing manager Diego Simeone with a quality option at left-back.

According to a previous report, Matteo Ruggeri will sign a contract with Atlético Madrid until June 2030.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Atlético have confirmed their first signing of the summer, following a disappointing Club World Cup campaign. Ruggeri made 38 appearances for Atalanta last season and provided three assists. Atlético used many players at left-back last season but none were convincing, so they have spent €20 million to solve the problem.

A previous report confirmed that Matteo Ruggeri made 38 appearances for Atalanta last season and provided three assists.

WHY IS THIS SIGNING SO IMPORTANT?

Atlético had to settle for third place in the 2024-25 La Liga season. None of their options at left-back impressed and Reinildo has been sold to Sunderland for their Premier League return, weakening their defense. Ruggeri can add much-needed stability to the side, with his experience in Serie A and Europe. Atalanta finished third in Serie A last season, qualifying for the Champions League, which is a significant adjustment compared to Atlético’s standing in La Liga.

A previous report confirmed that Atlético Madrid finished third in LaLiga last season.

WHAT HAPPENS TO RUGGERI AND ATLETICO NOW?

Ruggeri has joined Atlético’s pre-season camp and should be in line to start in their 2025-26 La Liga opener against Espanyol. Atlético will hope they can close the gap on the leaders and return to Champions League contention this season. Ruggeri is expected to start as Atlético Madrid’s first-choice left-back, replacing Reinildo, who has left the club.

A previous report noted that Matteo Ruggeri is expected to start as Atlético Madrid’s first-choice left-back.

A previous report confirmed that Atlético Madrid will have to find a replacement as they get ready for another European campaign.