After being named in the FIFPRO World XI, Alessia Russo spoke to us about how honoured she was to be a part of The Best FIFA Football Awards.
Alessia attended the ceremony at the Hammersmith Apollo for FIFA's version of the Ballon d'Or, where she was joined by teammate Amanda Ilestedt who had also been on the shortlist, manager Jonas Eidevall and Sporting Director Edu.
Our cameras were also there to bring you behind-the-scenes footage, and chat with a thrilled Alessia who reflected on being named one of the best forwards during the last 12 months, following her exploits for club and country.
“It’s amazing. It still feels a bit surreal," she said. "It means so much to be recognised by your teammates.
“It makes it 10 times nicer that it’s from the players you work with every day and want to please. To be voted by them makes it feel even more special.
“Honouring women’s football is really nice and special to do it in front of so many people at an awards like FIFA Best. It was really cool to highlight that.”
Since arriving at Arsenal in the summer, Alessia has got seven goals and two assists in 15 games in all competitions and she revealed that her great form is all down to the welcome she's received.
“The people here make it easy to settle in,” she said. “Ever since I walked through the door it has felt like home. Everyone has really looked after me and taken care of me. I love it and I’m really enjoying myself. To have them all here tonight is really special.
“It spurs you on to want to go and achieve more, win more games and trophies. We’ve got a big second half of the season coming up.”
Press play on the video above to see how the night unfolded.
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