AdminAston Villa’s summer signing is already seeing the rewards of his move from Atletico Madrid, with the 24-year-old defender receiving a call-up to Italy’s senior squad for the current international break.
The Villa man, who arrived during the summer transfer window, has represented Italy at every youth level.
He was also selected for the senior squad in 2025 but did not get the opportunity to make his debut.
Matteo Ruggeri has now been handed another chance after Federico Dimarco was ruled out through injury.
The Inter Milan defender has been unable to recover in time for the upcoming internationals, allowing Ruggeri to step into the squad.
The timing could prove particularly important. Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time, leading to growing acceptance that changes are needed within the national set-up.
Roberto Mancini has returned as Italy manager after previously guiding the country to Euro 2020 glory. The 61-year-old has since managed Saudi Arabia and Al Sadd in Qatar.
For Ruggeri, being selected for Mancini’s first squad could represent a major opportunity.
Dimarco’s absence gives the Aston Villa defender the chance to impress the new manager at the beginning of his second spell in charge.
Italy are scheduled to face Belgium, Turkey twice and France over the next couple of weeks, with Ruggeri hoping to finally make his senior debut.
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