Where Did English Striker Alessia Russo Kick Off Her Football Career?

Alessia Russo, the 26-year-old English sensation from Maidstone, has been in the limelight since winning the Women's Champions League with Arsenal before replicating the feat with the England women's national team at Women's Euro 202. Russo began her footballing journey at Bearsted FC before making her move to Charlton Athletic, Chelsea, Brighton and Hove Albion, Manchester United, and joining the Gunners in 2023. She finished as the second-highest goalscorer in the UEFA Women's Champions League after scoring 8 goals in the campaign. In this article, we shall delve into her humble beginnings at Bearsted FC a few years ago.

How is Alessia Russo Associated with Bearsted FC?

Despite being part of Charlton, Arsenal forward Alessia Russo started her footballing journey at Bearsted FC from a tender age of eight. She is widely celebrated at Bearsted. After England's recent win in the UEFA Women's Euro finals, Bearsted FC unveiled a mural of Russo celebrating her greatness and success at a continental level. The chairman of Bearsted FC emphasised how Russo's legacy is an inspiration for every budding female footballer in the world. Back in March 2024, Russo visited Bearsted FC and led the training session with the U14 girls and school teams. She is a perfect example of how one should remain connected to their roots, no matter how high one reaches.

What are Bearsted FC's New Developmental Plans?

Bearsted FC has witnessed a massive upgrade in the last few years. The infrastructure upgrade, inspired by Russo, saw the construction of new playing surfaces and youth training facilities to enhance participation at the grassroots levels. Russo's recent success at the continental level has seen many female footballers actively showing their interest in football, and the club is also working to expand the women's section. The club is even planning to recognise and felicitate young local talents during the annual award ceremony.