Hello Lucia! It’s a shame there isn’t much sun in London these days, especially considering you’re used to the sunny days in Barcelona. How are you finding your time in London? I must say, it’s great to be back. I do miss the sunshine in Barcelona, but it looks like the sun is making a comeback here too. How’s the food scene in London compared to Barcelona? Although, with your personal chef, I’ve seen on social media, I’m sure you’re well taken care of. It seems like she’s preparing everything for your return, the ultimate professional. Let’s catch up on everything soon. Let’s dive into something more personal for you that went unnoticed for most of your life until four years ago. You mentioned undergoing a test that revealed you have autism, along with being diagnosed with ADHD. It seems common for individuals with neurodiversity to exhibit traits that overlap. How do these traits manifest in you? Your mind seems to constantly race at a thousand miles an hour, making it challenging to sleep. Your hyperfocus on football is evident, with your unwavering passion (or should we say obsession) for the sport being a prominent trait of your autism. People often notice you playing with your hair, using it as a way to calm yourself without even realizing it. Have there been instances where you felt the need to mask certain aspects of yourself to fit in? Absolutely. You admitted to mimicking behaviors of others, especially during your twenties when you first arrived in England. Over time, you’ve become more comfortable, although hugging people and maintaining eye contact during conversations still pose challenges for you. Do your England and Chelsea teammates know about your diagnoses? Some do. When you shared your diagnosis with Demi and others, their reactions were supportive and understanding. It seems that your close circle has always accepted you for who you are without the need for further explanation. Regarding medication, have you considered it for managing ADHD? While there are medications available, you’ve chosen not to pursue them. You believe that your unique traits have contributed to your success in football and have shaped who you are today. Exercise, particularly through daily training sessions, serves as a beneficial outlet for your hyperactivity. Is your newfound comfort in discussing your diagnoses a result of feeling more at ease with yourself? Absolutely. You mentioned that ten years ago, you wouldn’t have been ready to have this conversation. Now, you’re more confident in embracing your true self and are inspired by the support of individuals like Phil Neville and Serena Williams. You’re embarking on a new project as an ambassador for the National Autistic Society, aiming to raise awareness and eliminate stigmas surrounding autism. Your personal journey has led you to advocate for understanding and acceptance, especially for those who may have felt misunderstood growing up. Your openness and willingness to share your story will undoubtedly inspire and help many individuals. Thank you for taking the time to shed light on such an important topic. Your journey is truly remarkable, both on and off the pitch, and your dedication to making a positive impact is truly commendable.
