Aston Villa have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season with the signings of Zion Suzuki and Matteo Ruggeri.
Aston Villa have completed a double signing ahead of the new Premier League season, bringing in goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and defender Matteo Ruggeri as Unai Emery continues to reshape his squad.
The Premier League club confirmed the arrivals of Suzuki from Parma and Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, with both players joining just days before Villa begin their 2026/27 campaign. The two signings address important areas of Emery’s squad, with both expected to have significant roles this season.
Kon’nichiwa! The first man to represent Japan at Aston Villa 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/Tfx3CWTiNV
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) August 19, 2026
Suzuki arrives as Villa prepare for the departure of Emiliano Martinez. The Argentina international has been linked with an exit throughout the summer, although his proposed move to Juventus recently collapsed. Despite remaining at the club for now, Emery is understood to be keen on moving on from the experienced goalkeeper.
The Japan international is therefore expected to compete for, and potentially take over, the number one spot at Villa Park. Suzuki has established himself as one of Japan’s leading goalkeepers and has earned 22 senior caps for the Samurai Blue.
Two new additions ✚ ✚ pic.twitter.com/wSOlFYBMxJ
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) August 19, 2026
The 24-year-old also impressed during the World Cup, starting all four of Japan’s matches and attracting interest from several clubs. Villa believe his age, ability and potential make him a strong long-term option between the posts.
Ruggeri, meanwhile, has been brought in to strengthen the left side of Villa’s defence. His arrival comes after Lucas Digne completed an £8.5 million move back to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving Emery in need of another option in the position.
The Italian defender’s move had been anticipated after he was spotted travelling to Birmingham with his agent last week. He now joins Suzuki as Villa’s latest additions, with both players potentially in contention to make their debuts when Emery’s side travel to Brighton on Sunday.
