Russo: Arsenal ´still pushing´ despite ´big gap´ to WSL leaders Chelsea

Arsenal striker Alessia Russo admitted there is ‘a big gap’ between the Gunners and Women’s Super League leaders Chelsea with nine matches left to go in the season.

Defending champions Chelsea are unbeaten this campaign and have 37 points from 13 games, while Manchester United are seven points behind in second place and Arsenal in third with 27 points.

The Blues have won the WSL title in each of the past five seasons, with Arsenal last claiming the silverware in 2018-19.

“Obviously, we’re realistic, and we understand there’s a big gap at the top now, but we’re still pushing, and we have a massive end of the season,” Russo told Sky News.

The 26-year-old has scored seven league goals for Arsenal this season, with only Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw scoring more (nine).

Arsenal are also in contention for the FA Cup and Women’s Champions League titles this season.

@alessiarusso7 pic.twitter.com/dOLYU6H23R

— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) February 14, 2025

Renee Slegers’ side will face Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals on March 9, while they take on Real Madrid in the two-legged quarter-finals of the Champions League later next month.

“We’re still in the Champions League, we’re still in the FA Cup, and we’re still pushing for the league. I think every game matters from now through to the end of the season and absolutely as a club we want to win trophies,” Russo said.

“As a player, I want to win trophies, so we know that what we’ve got left in this season, we’re going to be doing everything we can to win it.”

They will face north London rivals Tottenham in the WSL on Sunday as they look to cut the gap to Sonia Bompastor’s Chelsea.

“As soon as you sign for Arsenal and you become an Arsenal player, you understand the history of the north London derby, the rivalries within the clubs,” said Russo, who joined from Manchester United in 2023.

“I like to talk to Lotte [Wubben-Moy] and Leah [Williamson] about it because they’re lifelong Gooners.

“If you understand it from their point of view, coming into the club, it’s a game that you must win, and it carries a lot of history, but also, as players like, it’s a massive rivalry and a big game for the badge.”