England and Arsenal striker Alessia Russo has been named England Women’s Player of the Year after an impressive campaign for club and country. The 27-year-old has now received the honour for the second time, having previously won it two seasons ago.
Russo has played an important role for England during the 2025-26 season, appearing in all 10 of the team’s matches and scoring five goals. She started nine of those fixtures, including every one of England’s six qualifying matches for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Her latest recognition follows another important contribution to England’s qualification campaign. Last week, Russo scored the third goal in a 3-1 victory over Greece in the first leg of their 2027 World Cup play-off semi-final. The decisive return fixture is scheduled to take place at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium on Tuesday.
Russo won the fan-voted award ahead of Chelsea teammates Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton, underlining the support she has earned from England supporters.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Russo expressed her appreciation for the recognition.
“To receive the award is really special, particularly as it comes directly from the fans. I am so grateful for their support,” she said.
The Arsenal forward also acknowledged the importance of her teammates in helping her achieve individual success.
“A big thank you also to my team-mates – it is always about the collective,” Russo added.
Alessia Russo Continues to Earn Recognition
Russo’s latest award adds to a growing list of individual achievements. In September, she was included among the 30 nominees for the women’s Ballon d’Or, with England teammate Alex Greenwood the only other English player named on the shortlist.
Her international journey began long before she established herself in the senior team. Russo has represented England at every age group from under-15 level onwards, earning her first senior cap as a substitute against Spain in the final match of the 2020 SheBelieves Cup.
Since then, she has scored 31 goals in 68 appearances for England. She was part of the squad that won Euro 2022 and helped the Lionesses retain their European Championship title three years later.
Her consistent performances have also made her an important figure at Arsenal, where she continues to contribute goals and assists in domestic and European competitions.
Strong Season for Arsenal’s England Forward
Russo enjoyed an impressive Women’s Super League campaign last season, finishing as England’s highest-scoring player in the competition with 13 goals. She also registered six assists, demonstrating her ability to contribute beyond scoring.
One of her key performances came in May, when she scored twice during Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Aston Villa. The result helped the Gunners secure qualification for the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Her combination of finishing ability, movement and contribution to the team’s attacking play has established her as a key player for both Arsenal and England.
For more football news, player updates and the latest developments from the women’s game, visit Football Today.
With another England Player of the Year award now added to her achievements, Russo will look to maintain her strong form as England continue their pursuit of a place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup.