sports
‘I enjoy when things get tough’: Alessia Russo on Arsenal’s trophy quest, family pride and staying focused
In an exclusive interview, the England forward explains she is ‘locked in’ for the Gunners’ Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea
TL;DR
- Alessia Russo is playing some of the best football of her career, with 15 goals and six assists for Arsenal this season.
- She attributes her success to staying present, enjoying her football, and compartmentalizing moments.
- Russo is motivated by winning and making her family and teammates proud.
- She has launched The Alessia Russo Foundation to champion girls' participation in sports and empower young women.
- Russo also finds joy in the 'dirty stuff' and hard graft in addition to scoring goals.
- Family support, including her brothers and parents, is a significant motivator for her.
- The birth of her niece has added another layer of motivation.
- Russo is also inspired by teammates like Ella Toone and Lauren James who are making impacts off the pitch.
- She unwinds with films, TV shows, books, and watching football, including the Arsenal men's team.