Alessia Russo and Lauren James share top prize as Chelsea dominate 2025 Women’s Football Awards

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Arsenal’s Alessia Russo and Chelsea’s Lauren James were both awarded the *Player of the Year* honour at the 2025 *Women’s Football Awards*.

Russo has been in excellent form, netting 12 goals across 19 WSL matches this season, playing a significant role in helping Arsenal reach their first Women’s Champions League final since 2007.

James also made key contributions to Chelsea’s sixth consecutive WSL championship, despite an injury-plagued season, managing to score three times in nine appearances.

Back for its third straight edition and supported by *Metro* as media partner, this year’s ceremony saw Chelsea dominate the on-field awards, including being named *Club of the Year*.

Aggie Beever-Jones was recognised as *Young Player of the Year*, and Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor was named *Manager of the Year*, capping a remarkable first season at the helm.

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On a glittering evening that acknowledged key figures on and off the field, Chelsea and England’s Keira Walsh received the *Inspirational Role Model* award.

“The stories we heard tonight are shaping the future of football,” said *Women’s Football Awards* host Gabby Logan.

Alessia Russo and Lauren James earned joint *Player of the Year* honours (Images: Getty)

Manchester United FC v Chelsea FC – Barclays Women’s Super League

Aggie Beever-Jones (right) secured the *Young Player of the Year* award (Image: Getty)

“From world-class players like Lauren James and Alessia Russo to the trailblazing work being done off the pitch by clubs, brands, and broadcasters – every winner represents a step forward for the women’s game.

“The Women’s Football Awards have been an inspiring celebration of progress, purpose, and passion once again.”

Following their emphatic victory over Chelsea in the Champions League semi-finals, Barcelona were also recognised, with Alexia Putellas named *International Player of the Year*.

FC Barcelona v Chelsea FC Women – UEFA Women’s Champions League Semi Final First Leg

Alexia Putellas received the *International Player of the Year* accolade (Image: Getty)

Jamie Carragher, who co-hosted the ceremony, commended the winners, stating: “The Women’s Football Awards is Europe’s biggest celebration of the people powering the phenomenal rise of the women’s game.

“It was a privilege to be involved once again and help shine a light on the players, coaches, clubs, and leaders who are not just making history, they are changing the future of football.”

**Complete list of 2025 Women’s Football Awards winners:**

– **Linklaters Player of the Year:** Lauren James (Chelsea) & Alessia Russo (Arsenal)

– **Morrisons Young Player of the Year:** Aggie Beever-Jones (Chelsea)

– **VISA International Player of the Year:** Alexia Putellas (Spain)

– **Manager or Coach Award:** Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea)

– **Applied Nutrition Inspirational Role Model:** Keira Walsh

– **Women’s Football Icon:** Viviane Asseyi

– **Scottish Power Club of the Year:** Chelsea FC Women

– **Broadcaster/Journalist Award:** Seema Jaswal

– **Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award:** Sky Sports & Tottenham Hotspur

– **Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility:** Three UK

– **Brand of the Year:** Adobe

– **Marketing Campaign of the Year:** Persil & Arsenal – *Every Stain Should Be Part of the Game*

– **Best Social Media:** The FA

– **Best Fan Engagement:** Brighton & Hove Albion

– **Panini Women’s Football Champion:** Chloe Morgan, *She’s A Baller*

– **Off the Pitch Award:** Paul Barber OBE

– **Best Breakthrough Business:** Victoria’s Secret

– **Grassroots Initiative Award:** Manchester United Foundation – *Girls’ Football Development*

– **Football Business of the Year:** Rept Sports

– **Cadbury Game Changer Award:** Anita Asante

– **Football Business Trailblazer:** Anna Deignan

– **Legal Team of the Year:** RPC

– **Unsung Hero Award:** Fiona McIntyre

– **SHEIN Lifetime Achievement Award:** Kelly Simmons OBE

Broadcasting excellence was also highlighted, with Seema Jaswal earning recognition as *Broadcaster of the Year* for her significant contributions in promoting women’s football.

Top honours also went to Adobe, Three UK, Persil, and Sky Sports for their innovation and advocacy, with The FA receiving praise for *Best Social Media* due to its engaging Lionesses content.

Kelly Simmons, former Director of Women’s Professional Game at The FA, was honoured with the *SHEIN Lifetime Achievement Award* for her influential work in advancing the women’s and grassroots game.

Shihong Liu, Director, Europe Markets at headline sponsor SHEIN, said: “We are proud to be part of the Women’s Football Awards for the third year running.

“It was an inspiring evening that shone a light on the immense talent, determination, and impact of women in football. We extend our congratulations to all of the winners and nominees and look forward to another incredible year for the women’s game.”

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