Ronaldo's Daughter | Jude Bellingham

01

Catalina took a deep breath as she approached the England training camp. Despite her usual reluctance to engage in public events, the invitation from the England team had piqued her curiosity. It wasn't every day that she was invited to such a prestigious environment, and the fact that she was the daughter of one of football's most iconic figures added to the gravity of the situation. Catalina had always felt more comfortable in the background, preferring to live her life away from the public eye, but today she was stepping into a world where she might be the center of attention—albeit for reasons entirely separate from her father's fame.

As she entered the camp, she was greeted by a friendly staff member who escorted her to the training pitch. Catalina felt a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling inside her. Despite her shy nature, there was something undeniably exhilarating about being in the presence of so many talented players. As they approached the common area, she could hear the lively banter among the England squad, the atmosphere relaxed yet charged with the energy of competition.

"Harry," she began, her voice steady but tinged with the natural reserve that defined her. She extended her hand to shake his, and he took it firmly but gently, his smile warm and genuine.

"Thank you for coming and visiting us," Harry said, his tone welcoming.

Catalina offered a small smile in return. "No, thank you for having me. I know I'm not English, but I was born here and have lived here for a while, so I do feel a connection to the country. I wish you all the best in this tournament and beyond."

Harry's smile widened, a look of appreciation in his eyes. "That means a lot. We've got a good feeling about this one. But it's great to have you here, really. The lads are looking forward to meeting you."

Catalina nodded, trying to maintain her composure as she took in the scene around her. The common area of the England training camp was buzzing with energy. Players were scattered around, some engaged in casual banter, others focused on games or their phones. The camaraderie was palpable, and there was a sense of anticipation in the air as they prepared for the World Cup.

Just as she was beginning to feel a bit more at ease, Jordan Pickford, the team's goalkeeper, strolled over, his characteristic grin firmly in place. "Catalina, right?" he said, offering a handshake. His voice was lively, his energy infectious. "It's not every day we get a visit from football royalty."

Catalina couldn't help but laugh softly at his comment. "Royalty? Not even," she replied, shaking his hand. "I'm just here to meet you guys. No need for titles."

"Don't let Harry fool you," Jordan continued with a playful glint in his eye. "We might be the ones out on the pitch, but everyone here knows who your dad is. You're practically football royalty."

Catalina smiled, though she felt a familiar pang of discomfort at the mention of her father's name. She knew it was inevitable—being Cristiano Ronaldo's daughter meant she would always carry that association.

Bukayo Saka joined the conversation, his curiosity evident. "Do you play football too? I've heard you're quite good."

She hesitated, feeling the weight of their attention. "I do, but it's just a hobby for me. I play for my university team, it's nothing serious."

Mason Mount, overhearing the conversation, looked up from his game and smiled. "Bet you've got some of your dad's skills, though, right? I've seen a few clips of you playing. You've got a good touch."

Catalina felt a flush of embarrassment creep up her neck. "I just play for fun," she insisted softly. "I'm nothing like him."

"You're being really humble."