While millions indulge in traditional holiday feasts, Premier League athletes maintain rigorous nutritional regimens even during Christmas celebrations. Private chef Tommy Cole, who caters for top clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal, and Brighton, reveals how he transforms classic holiday meals into performance-optimizing fuel for elite footballers.
Cole adopts a ‘boujee-r’ approach to traditional Christmas dishes, modifying preparations to reduce fat content while preserving flavor and texture. His methodology involves roasting potatoes with minimal fat, selecting lean turkey breast over darker cuts, and incorporating abundant vegetables into every meal. The 33-year-old chef collaborates closely with club nutritionists to design customized menus that accommodate player preferences while ensuring optimal nutritional intake.
December’s demanding fixture schedule—with clubs facing over 15 matches across Premier League, European competitions, and domestic cups—necessitates strategic dietary adjustments. Cole increases carbohydrate portions through additional potatoes and pasta to sustain energy levels throughout the intensified period. For recovery enhancement, he incorporates omega-rich ingredients like oily fish, nuts, and seeds into post-match meals.
The chef employs innovative techniques to integrate vegetables for reluctant consumers, creating nutrient-dense sauces using puréed carrots, onions, and garlic as bases for popular dishes like katsu. Despite occasional unconventional requests like simple frankfurters, Cole typically prepares sophisticated cuisine that balances nutritional science with culinary excellence.
Cole’s unexpected journey into sports nutrition began eight years ago during a ski season where he discovered his passion for cooking. His TikTok videos showcasing elite athlete meals have garnered millions of views, though he maintains confidentiality regarding specific client identities. For Boxing Day traditions, he prepares bubble and squeak—a classic British dish incorporating leftover vegetables—ensuring players enjoy holiday flavors while maintaining competitive readiness.