Alessia Russo signs Arsenal contract extension as new WSL season begins | OneFootball

The former Manchester United forward won the WSL golden boot last season

Your matchday briefing on Arsenal, featuring team news and expert analysis from Simon Collings

I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice.

England star Alessia Russo has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal.

Russo has been with Arsenal since the summer of 2023, joining the Gunners on a free transfer from Manchester United.

The striker has since scored 36 goals in 72 appearances for Arsenal, helping them win the League Cup last year and the Champions League in May.

Russo scored 12 goals in 21 Women’s Super League appearances last season, which saw her win the Golden Boot.

Golden Boot: Alessia Russo

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

The 26-year-old was crowned the Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year after a fine season and her form has now been rewarded with a new contract.

“Arsenal feels like home,” said Russo. “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.

I’m still so hungry for more success, and I know that’s shared by everyone here at the club

Alessia Russo

“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. I can’t wait to get started this season, starting with this Saturday at Emirates Stadium.”

Russo has become England’s first-choice No9 since moving to Arsenal and she played a key role in the Lionesses winning Euro 2025 this summer.

The striker scored in the final and was named in UEFA’s Team of the Tournament, alongside her Arsenal team-mate Chloe Kelly.

Alessia Russo was part of the Lionesses’ Euros win this summer

The FA via Getty Images

“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.”

Arsenal’s director of women’s football Clare Wheatley added: “Alessia is one of the best strikers in world football and we’re thrilled to have agreed a new, long-term contract with her.

“We are all determined to bring more silverware to this club and keeping players like Alessia at the club is crucial to achieving that.

"I know our supporters will be delighted by this news and I join them in congratulating Alessia on her new contract.”