Alessia Russo admits she will stay off social media at Euro 2025 after previous online abuse | OneFootball

Alessia Russo has revealed that she will once again come off social media this summer during Euro 2025, with a history of online abuse leading the England striker to a hiatus.

One of England’s brightest stars, Alessia Russo, has opened up this week about online abuse that she has received at previous international tournaments.

When she was asked about the social media abuse, Russo admitted that she has suffered as much as any England star online over the years, despite being one of the Lionesses best players.

“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,” Russo said.

“I have faced it in the past and I think most players here have. When I was younger I probably got sucked into it more. I read it more than I should have and listened to it more than I should have. The only opinions that matter are my team-mates’, my coaches’ and my family’s.”

Alessia Russo represents England’s future

Russo is widely considered to be the future of England’s attack, with the WSL’s most valuable player taking the place of the country’s top goalscorer in Ellen White.

The 26-year-old scored three goals at the 2023 World Cup and has remained consistent in the Euros also, with five goals in her four games at two tournaments so far.

“I think you have to remember that they are the people you need to lean on in tough times.” She continued. “As I’ve got older, I understand more what works for me. In my first Euros I was on social media and I would have a look, have a scroll, and I got caught in a trap sometimes.

“Going into the World Cup 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 the team. Staying away from it and staying focused as a team is what works for me.”

It seems Russo has learned to not trust social media heading into the biggest tournaments and once again this summer she is expected to remain away from any potential abuse.

With Russo in their ranks this summer the Lionesses are once again one of the leading favourites to win Euro 2025 in what would be a historic back to back triumph.