Arsenal Women forward Alessia Russo has signed a new long-term contract, extending her stay at the club.
The England international joined the Gunners from rivals Manchester United in 2023 and has seen her influence grown at the club after just two years.
Russo, 26, netted 12 times in the league to win the English Women’s Super League golden boot, as Arsenal missed out on the league title to Chelsea.
She was rewarded for her outstanding performances for club and country with a ballon d’Or nomination, leading Arsenal to UEFA Champions League glory and retaining the European championships with England.
“Arsenal feels like home. 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”, Russo said.
“I’m so proud of everything we’ve achieved together as a club, with our supporters driving us forward. But I’m still so hungry for more success, and I know that’s shared by everyone here at the club”, she continued.
“I can’t wait to get started this season, starting with this Saturday at Emirates Stadium.”
Russo has scored 36 goals in 72 appearances since moving to North London in 2023 and was voted the FWA Women’s footballer of the year and in the PFA WSL team of the year last season.
Arsenal’s head coach Renee Slegers also lauded the England international and expressed enthusiasm ahead of the new season.
“Alessia is a really important part of our group and I’m so pleased that she has signed a new deal here.
As a striker, Alessia’s goals often take the spotlight – but she brings so much more to our group. She’s a selfless player, working so hard for the team, and she also contributes so much to our team culture. I’m looking forward to striving for more together”, Slegers said.
Arsenal open their 2025/26 WSL campaign against newly-promotes London City Lioness on Saturday, hoping to end their league title drought this campaign.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
