Matteo Ruggeri will stay at Atlético Madrid this summer, his agent Tullio Tinti has confirmed to Sky Sport Italy, dismissing recent links to Roma and Fiorentina.
The news contradicts weeks of reports in Spanish media suggesting Atlético’s director of football, Mateu Alemany, was seeking to sell Ruggeri to raise funds for further squad additions. Tinti stated that while Roma, Fiorentina, and previously Nottingham Forest in January, had expressed interest, the 24-year-old Italian left-back was never made available for transfer.
Ruggeri joined Atlético from Atalanta last July for a fee of under €20 million, signing a contract that runs until 2030. He initially struggled to adapt to his new surroundings, but found form in January, providing seven assists in a 17-game spell and contributing to the club’s Champions League quarterfinal victory over Barcelona. However, his overall performances were inconsistent, notably including a disappointing display in the Copa del Rey final loss to Real Sociedad.
The situation at left-back became clearer for Ruggeri following the weekend departure of Julio Díaz to Sevilla. Díaz’s move reduces competition behind first-choice Álex Grimaldo, a World Cup winner, and establishes Ruggeri as the clear backup option for the 2026-27 season. Atlético are still working to strengthen other areas of the squad before the transfer window closes, and retaining Ruggeri resolves one potential issue on the left flank.
While Tinti described Ruggeri’s previous season as “extraordinary”, a more realistic assessment suggests a mixed campaign. Despite his attacking contributions, particularly his crossing ability, his defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern for manager Diego Simeone. Remaining as a backup may limit his opportunities to increase his market value, though his long-term contract gives Atlético control over any future sale. The agent’s firm stance suggests Ruggeri himself was determined to stay at the club.
