To our amazing supporters, the Arsenal Women family, and the larger football community,
I feel obligated to convey my sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the development of my career as I consider my path in this lovely game. More than just a career, football has given me a sense of purpose, a sense of community, and a chance to develop both personally and as a player.
Thank you to Arsenal Women for accepting me into such a prestigious and illustrious organization and for believing in me. I never take the privilege of wearing the red and white lightly. I was immediately struck by the power of this club’s culture, which is based on excellence, resiliency, and solidarity. Every practice, every game, and every second spent at Meadow Park and the Emirates has challenged me to improve. Your standards have sharpened my goal, and your faith in me has bolstered my confidence.
My teammates and coaching staff, thank you for your constant support. The atmosphere you’ve established promotes development, responsibility, and faith. We push each other, encourage one another, and work together to achieve excellence. This club is unique because of its communal spirit.
I am so grateful to the fans. We are inspired more than words can say by your voices, flags, chants, and loyalty. You give us a sense of unstoppability whether we are playing at home or abroad. Your enthusiasm makes me think of the reasons I initially fell in love with football. You support us in good times and bad, and that relationship is crucial.
Thank you to the larger football community for supporting women’s football and pushing it to new heights. Opportunity, visibility, and belief are just as important to women’s football’s growth as on-field performance. Because of the opportunities made possible by commitment, funding, and encouragement from supporters, teams, and authorities, every young girl who today aspires to play professional football achieves so.
Although my path hasn’t always been easy, each obstacle has made me more determined. My confidence, attitude, and will to keep getting better have all been influenced by the support I’ve had throughout my career. I’ve learned resiliency, humility, and the value of teamwork from football.
I pledge to give it my all as I develop in this sportβfor the badge, for the supporters, and for the game’s future. Being a member of a movement that is altering attitudes and creating opportunities for future generations makes me proud.
We are grateful for the love, faith, and surroundings that enable us to flourish.
With appreciation and pride,
Russo, Alessia