𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐬︱Pablo Gavi

77: New position

The morning started like any other, but little did I know that by the afternoon, everything would change. I had just finished my routine checks with the players, ensuring everyone was on track with their recovery plans, and was preparing to settle into the usual post-lunch rhythm of the day. That's when the call came in—Xavi wanted to see me in his office.

I didn't think much of it at first. Meetings with Xavi were part of the routine, usually about updates on player injuries or adjustments to the training schedule. But as I walked down the familiar corridors of the training facility, a strange feeling of unease began to settle in the pit of my stomach. Something felt different.

When I entered the room, I was greeted by more than just Xavi. The management team was there too, all of them looking at me with a seriousness that immediately put me on edge. I sat down, feeling a mix of curiosity and anxiety as I waited for them to speak.

Xavi started with compliments about my work, praising the progress the players had made under my care and the dedication I'd shown to the team. But instead of feeling reassured, his words only heightened my unease. Compliments like these were often a prelude to something more significant.

Then, without much preamble, Xavi dropped the bombshell: Atlético Madrid had approached them with an offer for me. A major offer. They were interested in bringing me on as part of their medical team, offering a higher position, more responsibilities, and a substantial increase in pay. It was the kind of opportunity that most professionals in my field could only dream of.

I was stunned. My mind raced as I tried to process what I had just heard. Part of me was flattered—this was recognition of my hard work and expertise, and it felt good to know that other top clubs were noticing. But another part of me felt a pang of guilt and confusion. Barcelona had become my home. The thought of leaving everything and everyone behind was almost unbearable.

The management team wasted no time in trying to convince me to stay. Xavi spoke passionately about how integral I'd become to the team, how much the players relied on me, and how valued my work was. He hinted at the possibility of an enhanced role within Barcelona if I chose to stay, something more in line with the offer Atlético had made. They were pulling out all the stops to keep me, and it was clear that they didn't want to lose me.

But despite their efforts, I wasn't entirely convinced. The offer from Atlético Madrid was more than just a step up—it was a giant leap forward in my career. It promised new challenges, new experiences, and the chance to work with some of the best professionals in the sport. The idea of turning it down felt like closing a door that might never open again.

"I appreciate everything you're saying," I began, my voice measured as I tried to convey how torn I felt. "But this is a huge opportunity. I haven't made any decisions yet, but I can't ignore something like this. I have to think about my future."

There was a moment of silence in the room as they absorbed my words. Xavi nodded, though I could see the disappointment in his eyes. "We understand, Isabella," he said finally. "But just know that we want you here. You're a vital part of this team, and we'll do whatever it takes to keep you."

I thanked them for their support and assured them I would take some time to think it over. I needed space to weigh my options, to consider what was best not just for my career but for my life as a whole. With that, I left the room, my mind swirling with thoughts.

As I walked down the corridor, lost in contemplation, I suddenly heard a loud thud. My heart jumped in my chest, and I immediately rushed towards the sound. When I turned the corner, my heart nearly stopped—I found Pablo lying on the floor, unconscious.

"Pablo!" I cried out, dropping to my knees beside him. My hands shook as I gently shook his shoulders, trying to wake him. "Pablo, can you hear me?"

A few staff members quickly gathered around us, and someone called for help. My mind raced as I tried to figure out what had happened. Had he pushed himself too hard in training? Was it something to do with his recovery? My thoughts were all over the place, but then a realization struck me like a bolt of lightning—he must have overheard my conversation with Xavi and the management team.