Alessia Russo Named England Women’s Player of the Year

What changed

Alessia Russo has been named England women’s player of the year after a fan vote. The 27-year-old Arsenal forward played all 10 games in England’s 2025-26 campaign and scored five goals, beating Chelsea’s Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton.

Why it matters

The award adds a personal milestone to Russo’s growing role in England’s campaign. She has already scored the third goal in England’s 3-1 World Cup play-off semi-final first-leg win over Greece, giving her recognition from supporters just before the decisive return match.

England host Greece on Tuesday at Leicester’s King Power Stadium. Russo previously won the award two seasons ago, so this is both a repeat honour and a sign that her importance to the team has lasted beyond a single season.