Accusations targeting Matteo Ruggeri are agitating social networks and the Italian press. The Atlético de Madrid full-back, who arrived last summer from Atalanta, is suspected of having paid a woman to receive voice messages on Instagram containing racist, blasphemous and insulting remarks. According to several screenshots and videos widely relayed online, the 23-year-old player paid money in exchange for content specific to a sexual fetish and himself made offensive comments in his private exchanges: “ Do you mind if I touch myself while listening to your audios? Tell me you also insult black people and that you’re racist “, he says in one of the audios.
At this stage, the authenticity of all of the elements released has not been officially confirmed and the player has not yet publicly reacted to these accusations. This affair could nevertheless have important consequences on the future of the Italian defender. While several media outlets recently mentioned renewed interest from AS Roma, where he could have reunited with his former coach Gian Piero Gasperini, this potential transfer could be weakened by the controversy. The leaders of Atlético de Madrid are also following developments in the matter, while supporters await explanations from the player. If the facts were proven, Ruggeri would expose himself to serious sporting and disciplinary repercussions, in what already constitutes one of the most commented scandals of the offseason.
