16 June 2023 , 09:00
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Manchester United forward Alessia Russo has confirmed she will leave the club this summer upon the expiry of her contract.
The 24-year-old joined the club in 2020 and has gone on to play 46 league games for club, scoring 22 goals and registering seven assists. She also played a key role in the Lionesses ' journey to Euro glory last summer.
In an emotional letter to supporters, the England forward said: "If I ever picture myself as a little girl, I'm wearing a United shirt with a ball glued to my feet. If someone told that little girl that she'd represent the club one day, create so many memories and score at Old Trafford, I can't imagine how she'd contain the excitement.
"For me, football has always been about the hard yards and about leaving a legacy to be proud of. In all I've done, I've given my best in the hope that one day, I can leave the shirt in a better place for those who come next.
"I am going to miss my teammates, the fans and the staff at the club so much. Thank you to each and every one of you for allowing me to live my dream, it has been a pleasure to wear the #23 shirt. See you all soon, Alessia Russo."
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Manchester United also released a statement confirming the news and added: " Everyone at the football club would like to thank Alessia for her service and wish her luck for the future."
Alessia Russo of Manchester United celebrates after scoring her team's third goal during the FA Women's Super League match against Arsenal in November (Photo by Harriet Lander/Getty Images)Russo's first goal for the club came in a 3-0 league win over her former club Brighton and Hove Albion in October 2020. The 2022/23 season was a record-breaking campaign for the forward, culminating in qualification for the Champions League.
Russo was the subject of two record-breaking bids from Arsenal in January, both were turned down by United as she opted to remain with the Red Devils until the end of the season. The forward continues to be linked with the Gunners on a free transfer, as well as clubs in the United States, France and Spain.
A report from Sky Sports claims contract negotiations have been ongoing for 18 months but United only reached her expectations on the last week of the season, at which point it was too late.
However, for Russo, her focus will be on this summer's World Cup with England as she looks to nail down a starting place in the Lionesses' front line at the tournament in Australia and New Zealand. The tournament will begin on July 20, with England's first game against Haiti on July 22.