England manager Thomas Tuchel has implemented a strict dietary regime for his squad, banning wheat and sugar to enhance performance, according to former Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Hendrik Bonmann. Bonmann, who played under Tuchel at Dortmund, revealed the coach's nutritional rules in an interview with the BBC World Football Podcast.
Tuchel's Dietary Rules at Dortmund
Bonmann stated: "In Dortmund we had two points. We didn't eat wheat and sugar. This was not allowed. We had a cook who makes very, very good food, just healthy food with everything." The meals included salad, meat, fish, and vegetables but excluded wheat and sugar entirely. However, after Champions League victories, players were occasionally allowed burgers or pizza as a treat.
Tuchel's Personal Diet
Tuchel has described himself as an 'imperfect vegetarian,' aiming to avoid meat and fish where possible, though he still enjoys pizza and spaghetti bolognese. During his tenure at Chelsea, he noted he was not a strict vegan but tried to maintain a meat-free diet.
Current England Squad Nutrition
England captain Harry Kane emphasized the importance of nutrition in modern football. He said: "We have a couple of nutritionists at the club level and we also have one here with England. Nutrition has become a significant part of sport, particularly football. Considering the number of games we play, recovery is crucial, and food plays a big role in that." Kane personally ensures he eats salad and vegetables with every meal, balancing protein and carbs, with a higher carb intake before games.
Jude Bellingham's Meal Plan
According to Spanish outlet El Chiringuito, Jude Bellingham consumes four meals daily, starting with Greek yoghurt and oats for breakfast, and dinners of grilled meat and vegetables.
Pre-Match Nutrition Strategy
Jonny Marsh, known as 'The Football Feeder,' who has prepared meals for around 100 Premier League players including Jordan Pickford, explained the pre-match dietary approach. He said: "The day before the match, both lunch and dinner are more carb-focused." On matchday morning, players have a lighter meal with protein and low-fibre vegetables, shifting to easily digestible carbohydrates to avoid feeling heavy.
Ketchup and Mayonnaise Ban
Marsh also noted a broader trend in football nutrition: "A few years ago things like ketchup and mayonnaise were pretty much cut out in a lot of setups, not just with England but across the Premier League too. It was mainly down to them being high in sugar and fats." He added that hydrating ingredients like watercress and cucumber, along with hydration sachets and fresh juices from melon, beetroot, oranges, and lemons, are commonly used to maintain fluid balance.
Player Reactions
Not all players may welcome the ban. Before Tuchel's appointment, Declan Rice revealed in 2024 that he would eat four pancakes with syrup or honey before a game, calling it a "game changer."
