Greetings Lucia. It’s a shame London isn’t serving up much sunshine these days while you sport your shades. Although, I hear it’s sunnier here than anywhere else in England. How are you finding London? It’s good to be back. I do miss the Barcelona sun, but it’s making a comeback. How does the food compare to Barcelona? You do have a personal chef, and I’ve seen the buzz on social media. Oh, you know me, I like to go the extra mile, so she’s currently prepping everything for when I return home. She’s a true professional. Let’s catch up, we have a lot to talk about. Let’s delve into something more personal to you that remained hidden for most of your life until four years ago. Four years ago, I underwent a test and discovered that I have autism, though deep down, I always had a sense of it. I recall being treated differently when I was younger due to my behavior. The diagnosis also revealed ADHD, which is common among neurodiverse individuals, where traits often overlap. For me, it manifests as my mind racing constantly, struggling with sleep, and always having excess energy. Hyperfocus is a significant trait for me, especially when it comes to football—it’s not just passion, it’s an obsession, a manifestation of my autism. People often notice me playing with my hair, a habit that unknowingly helps me calm down. Have there been instances where you felt the need to mask your true self to fit in? Absolutely. Throughout my twenties, I mimicked others’ behaviors. Initially, I found it challenging to interact with people, but I observed and learned. Now, although it’s still uncomfortable at times, I’ve improved. Hugging people and making eye contact while speaking were norms I had to adapt to even though they made me uneasy. Do your England and Chelsea teammates know about your diagnosis? Some do. When I first shared my diagnosis with Demi, she wasn’t surprised, and the same reaction followed with my family—they already knew. I didn’t feel the urge to disclose it widely as those close to me accepted me for who I am. Have you considered medication for ADHD? While medication is available, I opted not to pursue it. I believe my traits have contributed to my success in football, and exercise serves as a beneficial outlet for me, providing focus and movement. Feeling comfortable in your own skin, do you now feel ready to discuss this openly? Yes, in the past decade, I wouldn’t have been able to share this. In the last five years, I’ve embraced being true to myself and prioritizing my comfort. With the support of influential figures like Phil Neville and Serena, I’ve gained confidence in being authentic. Recognizing similar traits in fellow players, I appreciate how these characteristics can enhance one’s footballing abilities. You’re embarking on a significant project as an ambassador for the National Autistic Society. It’s heartening to see you raise awareness and challenge stigma, drawing from your personal experiences to advocate for understanding and acceptance. Your courage and openness will undoubtedly inspire many.
