Alessia Russo, England’s women’s player of the year and Arsenal forward, recently participated in the Alessia Cup, a youth football tournament held at the New River Leisure Centre in Haringey, north London. The event, now in its second year, featured teams from 18 local schools competing to promote girls’ participation in football. Russo spent the day engaging with young players, distributing gifts including signed boots and England shirts to standout participants.
Reflecting on her own early football experiences, Russo recalled growing up in Kent, where she frequently played alongside her brothers. Initially placed in goal by them, she quickly improved her shooting skills in an effort to avoid the position, a competitive dynamic that helped shape her early passion for the game. Russo credits family support and influential figures, such as her secondary school PE teacher Luke Anderson—who serves as a trustee of the Alessia Russo Foundation—for fostering her development. The foundation seeks to reduce barriers for girls entering football.
Russo’s playing style is marked by her physicality and ability to contribute throughout the build-up, traits that evolved as she matured. She described herself as a small child who experienced a significant growth spurt during her mid-teens. Her time playing college soccer at the University of North Carolina notably enhanced her strength and conditioning. Transitioning to Manchester United under coach Casey Stoney, Russo adapted from a winger role to a central striker position, leveraging her physical presence to challenge defenders.
Internationally, Russo rose to prominence as a youthful talent during England’s victorious 2022 European Championship campaign, taking over the striking role previously held by Ellen White. Over the last four years, she has maintained a consistent presence in the national team, standing out amid several retirements, injuries, and changes in squad selection. She recently scored twice against Greece in a World Cup qualifier, helping England advance to the final qualification round against Ukraine.
As one of the more experienced members of the squad, Russo expressed her commitment to supporting younger teammates as they adjust to international play. Despite her success, she continues to embrace coaching from England manager Sarina Wiegman, who recently advised her to be more selective with her runs to conserve energy during matches.
The Alessia Cup event also included a special moment when Russo presented signed gloves from England and Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton to the tournament’s "Golden Glove" winner, a gesture that resonated emotionally with the recipient. Russo emphasized the importance of such grassroots initiatives, noting that they remind players and supporters of football’s joy beyond competition.
Through her foundation and ongoing involvement in youth football, Russo aims to inspire the next generation of female players, ensuring that more girls can experience the opportunities and enjoyment the sport provided her.