Former Manchester United player Alessia Russo joins Arsenal

Arsenal has successfully inked a permanent deal with 24-year-old England international forward, Alessia Russo.

Russo makes the switch to Arsenal following the end of her contract with Manchester United, where she notably scored 26 goals in 59 appearances over three years.

Her impressive career began in the youth programs at Charlton Athletic and Chelsea, and she made her senior debut in the FA Women's Continental Tyres League Cup in 2016.

She also has had a stint with Brighton & Hove Albion and played college football in the USA with the North Carolina Tar Heels.

At international level, Russo has represented the Lionesses 21 times, netting 11 goals. She was part of the triumphant squad that won the UEFA Women’s European Championship in 2022.

Russo not only scored four goals during the tournament but also bagged the Goal of the Tournament award by UEFA for her unforgettable backheel in the semi-final against Sweden. This remarkable goal also earned her a nomination for the 2022 FIFA Puskas Award.

Upon joining Arsenal, Russo expressed her excitement and ambition, stating to www.arsenal.com, “I’m really excited to be here and I can’t wait to get going. I want to win trophies – as does everyone in this club. I can’t wait to get stuck in and grow as a player – it’s a new challenge and a new environment.”

Russo highlighted the rise of women's football, particularly at Arsenal. She recalled the sell-out match against Wolfsburg at Emirates Stadium last season, which she described as "fantastic," adding, “I’m just really excited to be part of this club.”

Arsenal’s Head Coach Jonas Eidevall hailed Russo as "one of the best forwards in the world," believing in her potential for further growth and improvement. He acknowledged her proven track record of scoring goals both in the Women’s Super League and at the international level.

Echoing Eidevall's enthusiasm, Clare Wheatley, Head of Women’s Football, said, “We’re delighted to have signed Alessia, and I’m sure our supporters will be excited by this news. Alessia is a very talented footballer who fits the profile of player we want to bring to this club. We believe she has a high ceiling for further development, and we are confident that we can go to the next level together.”

Arsenal fans can look forward to seeing Russo don the number 23 shirt in the coming season.