Arsenal striker reveals ‘key factor’ behind record-breaking Champions League form

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Arsenal striker Alessia Russo has pinpointed enjoyment as the driving force behind her remarkable form this season, with the England international closing in on a Champions League scoring record ahead of Tuesday’s quarter-final clash with Chelsea.

The 25-year-old has registered 21 goal contributions in 29 appearances across all competitions and currently leads the Champions League scoring charts with seven goals. Just one more strike in Europe’s premier competition would see Russo set a new record for the most goals scored by an English player in a single Champions League campaign.

“I’m just enjoying football. I say that all the time. We’ve got so many great players that I get to play with week and week out,” Russo told Arseblog News.

The striker’s seven Champions League goals this season have come from all areas – two headers, three with her right foot, and two with her left, demonstrating the versatility that has made her such a threat in Europe’s elite competition.

Champions League inspiration

When asked why the Champions League brings out her best form, Russo highlighted the variety of tactical challenges the competition presents.

“I think you come up against so many different styles of teams in Champions League and I love that. Diving into different styles of football and playing against different kinds of systems,” she explained.

The Arsenal forward also reflected on what drew her to the north London club in the first place, emphasizing the importance of competing on the biggest stage.

“I came to Arsenal for these Champions League nights and I think I just feel really grateful to play in them,” Russo added.

Defending champions eye repeat success

As defending champions following their triumph in Lisbon last May, Arsenal enter Tuesday’s first leg with the experience of knowing what it takes to lift the trophy. Russo believes that success has only increased the squad’s hunger for more.

“We loved that feeling of winning the trophy in Lisbon and I think every player will say they want to experience that all over again,” she said.

Tuesday’s encounter marks the first time Arsenal and Chelsea have met in the Champions League, and the first occasion the Gunners have faced English opposition in the competition since playing Birmingham in 2014.

While acknowledging the significance for English women’s football, Russo maintains the team’s approach remains unchanged from their successful campaign last season.

The quarter-final first leg takes place at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening, with Arsenal looking to take a crucial advantage into the return fixture at Stamford Bridge.