Hello, Lucia. It’s a shame we’re not getting much sun in London these days, especially when you’re used to the sunny days in Barcelona. How are you finding your time in London? It’s good to be back, although I do miss the Barcelona sun. Speaking of food, is it better in Barcelona compared to here? I’ve seen that you have a personal chef, which must be convenient. Yes, she’s currently preparing everything for me at home. She’s a true professional. Let’s catch up on everything we’ve missed. Let’s talk about something more personal to you that remained unnoticed for most of your life until four years ago. Four years ago, I underwent a test and found out that I have autism, which was something I always had a feeling about. I remember being treated differently when I was younger due to my behavior. The diagnosis also revealed that I have ADHD, which is common among neurodiverse individuals. My mind is constantly racing, making it challenging for me to sleep. I have too much energy all the time, always thinking several steps ahead, which sometimes leads people to think I know it all. Football is where my hyperfocus lies – I’m not just passionate, I’m obsessed. One noticeable trait about me is that people always see me playing with my hair, which unknowingly helps me calm down. Have there been instances where you felt the need to mask your true self to fit in? Absolutely. I copied behaviors from others throughout my twenties, especially when I first arrived in England. It was uncomfortable for me to socialize, but I’ve learned to adapt over time, even though hugging and making eye contact still make me uneasy. Some of my England and Chelsea teammates are aware of my situation. When I informed them about my diagnosis, their reactions were understanding, as they already had a sense of it. I haven’t considered medication for ADHD because I believe that my unique traits have contributed to my success in football. Exercise has been beneficial for managing ADHD symptoms, helping me stay focused and active. I feel comfortable discussing this now because I’ve reached a point where I fully accept myself. Ten years ago, this wouldn’t have been possible. Over the past five years, I’ve embraced who I am and prioritized my well-being. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself and others, recognizing similar traits in fellow players. This newfound confidence has led me to become an ambassador for the National Autistic Society, aiming to raise awareness and eliminate stigma surrounding autism. Sharing my story with you is important to me, as I hope it can inspire and help others. Thank you for taking the time to listen, and I believe that this is just the beginning of a greater initiative that will benefit many individuals.
