Alessia Russo is being fully utilised at Arsenal Women after manager Jonas Eidevall openly admitted the team must improve the way they support the England striker in attack.
Russo arrived at Arsenal with enormous expectations following an impressive spell at Manchester United Women and her growing reputation with the England women’s national football team. Widely regarded as one of the best finishers in women’s football, the Lionesses star was expected to become the focal point of Arsenal’s attack almost immediately. However, despite flashes of brilliance, there have been increasing discussions about whether the Gunners are truly getting the best from their star forward. (
Eidevall himself appeared to acknowledge the issue during a recent press conference, admitting Arsenal need to improve how they involve Russo in dangerous areas. The Arsenal boss praised the striker’s finishing ability and overall work ethic but stressed that the team must create more opportunities for her inside the penalty area.
According to Eidevall, Russo possesses “sky-high potential” and remains one of the best finishers he has worked with. However, he believes Arsenal’s attacking structure still needs refining to maximise her strengths.
The debate has intensified because Russo’s quality is unquestioned. Since breaking through on the international stage during England’s UEFA Women’s Euro triumph, she has become one of the most recognisable stars in women’s football. Her intelligent movement, physical presence, technical quality and clinical finishing make her one of the most complete forwards in the game.
Yet some supporters and pundits believe Arsenal’s style of play occasionally isolates the striker, leaving her with too few clear scoring opportunities. While the Gunners dominate possession in many matches, Russo has sometimes been forced to drift deeper or wider to influence games instead of operating consistently in central scoring positions.
Despite those concerns, Russo’s overall numbers remain strong. Since joining Arsenal, she has continued to contribute goals in domestic and European competitions while also maintaining her importance for England. Her performances over the past two seasons have helped establish her as one of the leading forwards in Europe.
There is also recognition that adapting to a new club can take time. Eidevall highlighted the pressures involved in settling into a different environment, including tactical adjustments and personal changes away from football.
Still, expectations around Arsenal remain extremely high. As one of the biggest clubs in women’s football, supporters expect the team not only to compete for trophies but also to help elite players like Russo reach their full potential. With Arsenal continuing to challenge domestically and in Europe, improving the connection between Russo and the team’s attacking unit could become one of the most important factors in determining future success.
For now, the message from Eidevall is clear: Arsenal believe Russo can become even more dangerous — but the team around her must do more to unlock her very best form.
