Kai Rooney's pre-match diet is identical to what his father, Wayne, used to follow during his playing career. The Manchester United prospect, who turned 17 earlier this week, hopes to follow in the footsteps of the Red Devils icon and make his mark in the professional game.
Strict Pre-Match Nutrition Plan
Like his father, the teenager follows a strict diet that includes eating chicken and pasta two days before a game, according to Mail Sport. He then switches to salmon, rice and a rice pudding the night before a match. On the morning of a game, Kai eats oatmeal with honey and protein powder, as reported by the Manchester Evening News.
His dietary discipline has been praised by figures within the United academy. The 17-year-old does allow himself a cheat meal on occasion, with his favoured choice being the family's regular Chinese takeaway 'WowYauChow' in Altrincham. His favourite dish is said to be the crispy chilli beef.
Recent Form and Off-Pitch Interests
Kai's productivity on the pitch is matched by his discipline off it. He scored four goals in a 6-0 victory over Burnley's U18s last week, then added another in a 4-1 win over Blackburn Rovers four days later before being sent off after receiving a second yellow card in the second half.
Alongside his focus on his career, Kai's hobbies include cooking, and the forward is also fluent in Spanish. His rise through United's academy was featured on The Real Rooneys docu-series, which premiered on Disney+ last month.
Wayne Rooney's Advice to His Son
Wayne, 41, spoke about the role his family are playing in his son's development and the importance of hard work. He said: "Kai is determined to be a football player. I try to give a little bit of advice when I can, really. I think what we are trying to do is help him be ready, whether that's for football or something else."
"He's at that point now in life where you think you know everything. You think you know more, and you're better than everyone. When people talk to me now, they still say the one thing they loved about me, more than anything, was my work rate."
"That's the biggest compliment you can get. This is just the start for Kai. He's the only one who can do it. It's got to come from inside of you."
