Alessia Russo confirms Manchester United departure amid Arsenal speculation
Alessia Russo has confirmed she is set to leave Manchester United amid mounting speculation she is set for a transfer to WSL rivals Arsenal.
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The 24-year-old shot to prominence last summer when she played a pivotal role in England’s landmark European Championship triumph.
Russo enhanced her burgeoning reputation last season as United pushed Chelsea all the way but ultimately fell just short in their bid to win the WSL title.
After failing to agree a new contract, Russo will now officially leave the club upon the expiration of her contract at the end of June.
In a short statement, accompanied by an emotional video, Russo wrote on Twitter:’It’s been the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make.
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‘Man Utd women, thank you for everything.’
In a statement of their own, United added: ‘Manchester United can confirm that Alessia Russo will leave the football club on completion of her contract at the end of June.
‘The England international joined United in the summer of 2020 and made her competitive debut in our 5-2 Women’s Super League win at Birmingham City in September of that same season. Alessia scored her first goal in our 3-0 league win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Leigh Sports Village in October 2020.
‘Alessia went on to make 59 appearances in all competitions as a Red, scoring26 goals in the process. Her time at the club culminated in a record-breaking 2022/23 season for United Women, with the team finishing second in the WSL, securing Champions League qualification for the first time, as well as making it to our maiden Women’s FA Cup Final.
‘Everyone at the football club would like to thank Alessia for her service and wish her luck for the future.’
Attention will now turn to Russo’s future amid mounting speculation she is set to join fellow England internationals Leah Williamson and Beth Mead at Arsenal.
The Gunners made a stunning world-record £450,000 bid for Russo in January. following the long-term injuries sustained by star forwards Mead and Vivianne Miedema.
United rejected that offer and remained hopeful of making a breakthrough in negotiations over a new long-term deal for their star striker.
After 18 months of talks, however, Russo has opted to leave as a free agent with Arsenal said to be close to an agreement ahead of the upcoming World Cup in Australia.
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