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Premier League players don’t get to enjoy a traditional Christmas like most folks. With Boxing Day matches just around the corner, the holiday turns into another workday, packed with training, tactical prep, and strict diets. Here’s what some footballers have shared about spending Christmas as pros:
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher opened up about the sacrifices players make during the festive season. He mentioned how he stuck to water on Christmas Day while his family urged him to indulge. Even though he thought one drink wouldn’t hurt, he always kept it disciplined. He reflected:
“One drink wouldn’t hurt, but I’ve never drunk on Christmas Day. For me, there’s no point unless you’re going out properly!”
Arsenal great Ian Wright found the early morning drive to training on Christmas Day to be pretty special. He recalled:
“It’s beautiful – the roads are empty, and everyone is friendly because it’s Christmas. Even Spurs fans wave at you!”
But once training kicks off, the vibe shifts, and players have to focus, leaving their families behind for the day.
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Former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given talked about the challenges of playing away matches. For teams traveling on Boxing Day, players often leave their families to stay in hotels for pre-match routines. Given pointed out Newcastle’s streak of away games during the holidays, calling it “jinxed” when the club had to travel repeatedly at Christmas.
Despite the sacrifices, some players squeeze in a quick Christmas lunch with their families before heading off for training or hotel stays. But their meals stick to strict dietary rules, leaving no room for festive treats or booze.
This year, 16 out of 20 Premier League teams will play on Boxing Day, with Brighton and Arsenal set for the 27th. It’s a reminder that for footballers, the festive season is all about staying in top shape, not indulging.
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