Alessia Russo: Arsenal's Star Forward on Champions League Ambitions and Staying Focused
In an exclusive interview, Alessia Russo, the 27-year-old forward for Arsenal and England, reveals her unwavering determination to secure another Champions League victory. With Arsenal set to face Chelsea in the quarter-finals, Russo emphasizes the team's hunger for success, stating, 'We know how amazing it feels to win the Champions League and want that feeling over and over again.' Her current form is exceptional, boasting 15 goals and six assists in 29 club games this season, along with leading the Champions League scoring charts.
Finding Calm and Focus on the Pitch
Russo attributes her stellar performance to a newfound sense of calm and presence. 'Whenever you’re happy in life and in your club environment, it breathes on to the pitch,' she explains. Over the past couple of years, she has mastered the art of staying present, which helps her remain locked in on each moment. This mindset shift has been crucial, as she admits that earlier in her career, things felt '100 miles an hour,' leading to distractions. Now, focusing on the here and now allows her to excel, especially in high-pressure situations like the upcoming London derbies at Emirates Stadium.
Navigating Pressure and Team Dynamics
Arsenal's position in the Women's Super League sees them trailing Manchester City by 11 points, but with games in hand and active campaigns in the Champions League and FA Cup, silverware remains within reach. Russo acknowledges the pressure but frames it positively: 'The difference is that we know we’ve got what it takes, but we also know how amazing it feels to win.' She highlights the importance of making every chance count in tight games, a lesson learned from former teammates like Tobin Heath and Christen Press, who emphasized positivity after missed opportunities.
Family Support and Personal Motivations
Russo's family plays a pivotal role in her motivation. Her father, Mario, has never missed a game, and moments like her Champions League win or Euro triumphs are dedicated to them. 'They’re a massive part of what motivates me,' she says, adding that making her family and teammates proud drives her best performances. Recently, becoming an aunt has added another layer of inspiration, with her niece bringing joy regardless of match outcomes.
Expanding Her Game and Giving Back
Playing a deeper role at Arsenal has showcased Russo's versatility beyond goals and assists. She enjoys the hard graft and defensive work, noting, 'I enjoy when things get tough.' Off the pitch, she has launched The Alessia Russo Foundation, aimed at promoting girls' participation in sports and supporting women's health. Russo feels a responsibility to use her platform for meaningful impact, inspired by teammates like Ella Toone and Lauren James who are also involved in charitable efforts.
Unwinding and Future Aspirations
To balance her intense schedule, Russo unwinds with films, TV shows, and books, particularly thrillers by Freida McFadden. She also follows Arsenal's men's team, fostering a strong bond between the squads. Looking ahead, she dreams of both Arsenal teams winning trophies this season, but stresses, 'It means nothing if we don’t go out and perform on the pitch.' With her focus sharp and support system strong, Russo is poised to lead Arsenal in their pursuit of European glory.
