Alessia Russo on dealing with hate
Being considered one of the best footballers in the world comes with its own level of scrutiny, whether that be from the media or from supporters.
You are under the microscope like no other – every pass, every touch of the ball, every shot, if it’s not perfect, you will know about it.
In this modern era of football, that is only heightened by the use of social media.
Russo’s response? It’s best to stay clear.
“I think every player might have a different story about that side of the game but it’s definitely one that can be really damaging,” she told reporters pre-EURO 2025.
“I have faced it [online abuse] in the past and I think most players here have.
“When I was younger, I probably got sucked into it more, I read and listened to more than I should have – the only opinions that matter are my teammates, my coaches and my family.
“I think you have to remember that they are the people you need to lean on in tough times.”
Thrust in the spotlight three years ago and subsequently moving to Arsenal has only piled on the pressure for the No.23.
But with age comes maturity, knowing when to turn your attention away and focus on something different, something more positive.
“As I’ve got older, I understand what works for me. In my first EUROs, I was on social media, and I would have a look [and] I got caught in a trap sometimes,” she admitted.
“Going into the World Cup [in 2023], I completely came off everything and I had people to run my Instagram.
“I just focused on the tournament; it’s personal preference and whatever works for them [but] staying away from it and staying focused as a team is what works for me.”
Russo will be looking to silence critics once more in England’s last Group D outing on Sunday (13 July), when they take on Wales in a crucial showdown.