Women’s Footballer of the Year contender Russo

Alessia Russo made history with Arsenal by guiding England to their European Championship crown while becoming the first British team to win the Women’s Champions League since 2008 under the leadership of the Gunners.

She scored in the Euro 2025 final and found her groove with her club, where she excelled all season long in front of goal and off the ball.

The forward won the Football Writers’ Association’s women’s football player of the year award last year.

She and Khadija Shaw shared the Golden Boot, both of whom were the women’s super league’s (WSL) top scorers.

Russo added two assists and 12 WSL goals for Arsenal.

Russo’s thoughts on how much she has grown in the last year:

I always have control over what I play football best when I’m enjoying myself and working hard to get my work done.

A number nine position has so many different aspects, is so detailed, and has so many fine margins. I’m constantly learning. At Arsenal, our coaches are excellent. I’m also going to learn a lot of players. Then, as the big games come around, you get used to them more.

Upon winning the 2025 Euro with England:

The entire tournament was a “virtuous rollercoaster.” There were both highs and lows. It was very emotionally difficult. Our bodies were being burdened by it.

Many of us were extremely battered and stricken after the Sweden [quarter-final] game. It was so intense. However, you must turn it around quickly. It moves so quickly.

“I believe the reason we won that tournament was a result of grit and perseverance,” she said. And I believe we were aware of the squad’s existence and of what it required.

“You’re playing against the best teams in the world, the best players in the world, and you occasionally have to win a little bit dirty.”

In the Champions League final:

Being so composed that day made me think about it over and over again, as we knew we had done the work, that we knew we had what it took, and that we knew we believed in the game plan and what we wanted to accomplish.

You have to feel at ease not having the ball against a team like Barcelona, they’re so talented, it’s obvious. They don’t give the ball away that frequently when they do.

We were extremely focused on our job as press reporters and outsiders. There was a lot of running and a lot of deflection. But ultimately, that is what accomplished the task. You must also be able to win those games, in my opinion.

Regarding Kelly Smith, a legend at Arsenal and England, as her idol growing up:

“I enjoyed spending time with my dad watching her a few times. She was incredible when she was also seen for England. She was one of the best players ever, but I wish she could have played more and still do so now.

Last year, Alessia Russo shared the Golden Boot with Alessia Russo, who scored 12 goals in 21 games.

She excels because of her ability to contribute to the team beyond her personal goals.

Strong hold-up play was required because Mariona Caldentey’s teammate played progressive passes into Russo frequently last year.

Russo’s ability to release herself from her close-knit marker quickly and provocatively stood out.

Russo effectively used her body to make foul calls when the opponent’s half came too close for her. No player was fouled more than the Arsenal striker (15) in the Champions League last season.

Russo uses a lot of precision when the ball does stick. She stays aware of where her foes are despite constantly scanning her surroundings.

Russo locates nearby team-mates facing the goal with only minimal touches on the ball before disguising it to defenders under player-to-player pressure.

Russo frequently finds herself using her team as an outlet when things are difficult to do and by keeping the ball in difficult situations.