Arsenal Women have secured a significant coup by extending Alessia Russo's contract. The announcement came just before their Women's Super League (WSL) season opener against London City Lionesses at the Emirates Stadium, solidifying Russo's commitment to the Gunners for the long term. While the exact duration of the new deal remains undisclosed, the signing underscores Arsenal's faith in the 26-year-old forward.
Russo's journey with Arsenal began in July 2023, when she joined as a free agent following the expiration of her contract with Manchester United. Arsenal's pursuit of Russo was no secret, having made two unsuccessful bids for her in the preceding January. Since arriving in North London, Russo has quickly become an integral part of the team, showcasing her prowess as a prolific goal scorer and a dynamic presence on the field.
A proven winner at both club and international levels, Russo brings a wealth of experience and a relentless desire to succeed. Her contributions have already been instrumental in Arsenal's recent successes, including a League Cup triumph in 2024 and a coveted Champions League victory in May. Russo's ability to perform under pressure and deliver decisive goals has made her a fan favorite and a key asset for the Gunners.
Last season saw Russo reach new heights, as she jointly claimed the WSL's Golden Boot alongside Khadija Shaw, both scoring an impressive 12 goals. Her exceptional performances were further recognized when she was named the Football Writers' Association's women's footballer of the year. Russo's consistent excellence has also earned her spots in the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) and UEFA teams of the year, culminating in a well-deserved nomination for the prestigious Ballon d'Or.
“Arsenal feels like home,” said Russo, expressing her delight at extending her stay with the club. “This is such a special club and it has felt that way to me from the moment I joined two years ago. Playing for Arsenal is an honour and has pushed me to develop and grow as a player, and I feel empowered with this badge on my chest.” Her words reflect the strong bond she has formed with the club and the sense of belonging she feels within the Arsenal setup.
Manager Renée Slegers echoed Russo's sentiments, highlighting her multifaceted contributions to the team. “As a striker, Alessia’s goals often take the spotlight – but she brings so much more to our group,” Slegers explained. “She’s a selfless player, working so hard for the team, and she also contributes so much to our team culture.” Slegers's comments underscore Russo's importance beyond her goal-scoring ability, emphasizing her work ethic, team spirit, and positive influence on the squad.
Russo's commitment to Arsenal signals the club's ambition to maintain its position as a leading force in women's football. Her presence provides a focal point in attack and inspires confidence throughout the team. As Arsenal embarks on a new WSL season, Russo's leadership and talent will be crucial in their pursuit of further silverware. Her extended contract ensures that Arsenal fans can continue to enjoy her mesmerizing performances for years to come.
The extension of Alessia Russo's contract marks a significant moment for Arsenal Women. It secures the future of one of the game's brightest talents and reinforces Arsenal's commitment to building a successful and sustainable team. As Russo continues to develop and excel in an Arsenal shirt, the future looks bright for both the player and the club.
