Italy and Atlético Madrid wing-back Matteo Ruggeri is facing damaging allegations after being accused of paying a woman to send him audio messages containing racist, blasphemous and insulting content for sexual gratification. The claims were published by Fabrizio Corona, who alleges he possesses screenshots of payments and audio recordings of their exchanges.
The Allegations
Corona claims that Ruggeri transferred €150 on multiple occasions specifically to receive erotic audio messages featuring racist language and blasphemous insults. The latter is considered particularly serious in Italian football culture, where players and coaches typically receive at least a one-match ban for using such terms. The media personality has published what he says are screenshots of the payments alongside recordings allegedly documenting Ruggeri’s specific requests and reactions to the material.
Source Credibility
The accusations originate from a figure with a controversial track record. Corona has previously served prison sentences for attempting to blackmail Italian football clubs and players using compromising photographs. He was also found guilty of defamation against former Inter striker Mauro Icardi and made broad claims during the 2023 and 2024 betting scandals that failed to materialise. Ruggeri has not issued any public statement responding to the allegations.
Career Implications
The 23-year-old defender, who turns 24 next month, completed a €17 million transfer to Atlético Madrid from Atalanta last summer. Despite earning caps for the Italian national team, he has found regular first-team football difficult to secure in Spain. Recent speculation has linked him with a return to Serie A, though these allegations could complicate any potential move.
With Ruggeri maintaining silence, the situation remains unresolved. If the allegations were substantiated, they could carry significant consequences given the strict stance Italian football authorities take on blasphemy and racist conduct, potentially affecting both his club career and international prospects.