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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Laura Hartley

'Going to miss having you by my side every day' - Ella Toone's emotional goodbye to Alessia Russo

Ella Toone has sent an emotional message to her best friend and now former Manchester United teammate Alessia Russo.

The childhood friends will say goodbye on a domestic level amid Russo's departure from United after her contract came to an end, but it won't be a final goodbye as the pair head to the Women's World Cup in Australia together next month.

As Toone prepares to play for United without her best friend and teammate, she posted an emotional video on TikTok with the caption, "Going to miss having you by my side every day".

Toone's video, which she posted on TikTok, is a touching sentiment to their time together at the club as best friends.

"Away from football, I just wanted to say best of luck to my best friend Alessia, moving clubs. I'm really proud of you and hope you smash it, I'm definitely going to miss you and spending time with you every single day.

"But I know you'll be great and I know we'll be friends forever. Love ya, miss ya and enjoy it."

Russo penned an open letter to the United fans on her time at her childhood club, and wanting to inspire the next generation:

Dear United fans

If I ever picture myself as a little girl, I'm wearing a United shirt with a ball glued to my feet. If someone told that little girl that she'd represent the club one day, create so many memories and score at Old Trafford, I can't imagine how she'd contain the excitement.

For me, football has always been about the hard yards and about leaving a legacy to be proud of. In all I've done, I've given my best in the hope that one day, I can leave the shirt in a better place for those who come next.

I am going to miss my teammates, the fans and the staff at the club so much. Thank you to each and every one of you for allowing me to live my dream, it has been a pleasure to wear the #23 shirt.

See you all soon,

Alessia Russo

Ella Toone and Alessia Russo will next play on the same team for the Lionesses on July 1 against Portugal at Stadium MK, as they prepare for the World Cup.

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