A Bet That Changed Us ︱Pablo Gavi

120: unexpected challange

The morning sun filtered through the blinds of my clinic, casting a warm, gentle light across the room. I was in my usual routine, setting up for the day's appointments. I carefully arranged the treatment tables, organized my tools, and made sure everything was in order. It felt reassuringly normal, a familiar rhythm that I was used to.

As I adjusted the position of a few supplies, I hummed softly to myself, content in the predictability of the day. The usual pre-work quiet was interrupted by the soft buzz of my phone. I glanced at the screen and saw a message from David, one of the assistant coaches.

"Hey Isa, Xavi wants to have a word with you. Can you give him a call when you have a moment?"

I frowned slightly, puzzled. "Xavi? Why would he need to talk to me?" I wondered aloud. David's message was unexpected and a bit out of the blue.

I quickly finished setting up and dialed Xavi's number, my mind racing with possibilities. What could he want? Had something changed with the upcoming match? I pressed the phone to my ear, listening as it rang.

"Hola, Xavi," I said when he answered. "David said you wanted to talk to me?"

"Isabella," Xavi's voice came through the phone, calm but carrying an undertone of urgency. "Thank you for calling. I hope you're doing well."

"I'm good, thanks," I replied. "What's this about? David mentioned you wanted to speak with me."

Xavi took a deep breath, and I could sense the weight of his words. "I'm afraid I have a bit of an unusual request. As you know, I've been unwell, and I won't be able to be on the field for the next couple of days."

I nodded, though Xavi couldn't see me. "Yes, I heard. I hope you're feeling better soon."

"Thank you," he said. "Now, here's the thing. I need someone to step in as coach for the upcoming training session and the game against Osasuna. I've been thinking about it, and I believe you're the right person for the job."

I was taken aback, my mind struggling to process what Xavi was saying. "Me? But I'm a physiotherapist. I haven't coached before, and there are other coaches who—"

"I understand," Xavi interrupted gently. "But given your understanding of the team and your background in football, I believe you have the insight needed to guide them effectively. You won't be alone; Marta will be with you to assist and provide support. This is an opportunity to step up, and I have full confidence in your abilities."

The weight of Xavi's words settled over me. I felt a surge of nerves and excitement, mixed with a tinge of self-doubt. "I appreciate your confidence in me, Xavi. I'll give it my best shot, but I'm not sure I'm fully prepared for this."

"I know it's a lot to ask," Xavi said. "But I trust you. The team respects you, and I believe you'll do a great job. Just approach it with the same dedication and passion you bring to your role as a physiotherapist."

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "Alright, I'll do it. I'll meet with Marta and get everything organized. Is there anything specific you want me to focus on?"

"Just keep the team focused and ready," Xavi replied. "Stick to the drills we've been working on and ensure they're mentally prepared for the game. I'll be checking in periodically, and if you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out."

"Got it," I said, feeling a mix of anticipation and apprehension. "I'll make sure everything is taken care of."

Xavi thanked me, and we ended the call. I stood there for a moment, absorbing the gravity of what I had just agreed to. The idea of stepping into the role of a coach was daunting, but it also filled me with a sense of purpose.