Madrid, July 9
New Atletico Madrid signing Matteo Ruggeri says he didn't think twice when the club came calling for him to play in La Liga.
The 22-year-old full back joined Atletico a week ago from Atalanta for a fee in the region of 17 million euros (about 20 million U.S. dollars), with a five-year contract until the end of June 2030.
"When my agents told me that Atletico was interested, I had no doubts. I said 'yes' straight away. It's too big an opportunity; I couldn't let it slip away. I'm really pleased to be here," the Italian said on to club website, as quoted.
Ruggeri will compete with Javi Galan for a place on the left of the Atletico defense, but admitted he will have to adapt if Atletico coach Diego Simeone plays with a flat back four.
"I've mostly played as a wing-back in a back five, but I can also play in a back four or as the left center-back in a back three. I like to get forward and work hard," said the defender, who said he was "an aggressive player with a combative mindset."
Ruggeri said his nickname 'The Tiger' came from his style of play. "I never hold back. On the pitch, I always have this fighting spirit and energy," he commented.