Declan Rice explains unusual pre-match ritual | OneFootball

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has attributed his exceptional performance this season to a rather unconventional pre-game meal: pancakes.

The 25-year-old, nominated for the Premier League’s Player of the Season, divulged his pancake-powered secret in a recent interview, sparking curiosity and debate among athletes and fans alike.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 14: Declan Rice of Arsenal shows appreciation to the fans following the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Aston Villa at Emirates Stadium on April 14, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Arsenal‘s Declan Rice, nominated for the Premier League’s Player of the Season, has divulged a surprising fuel source behind his exceptional performances this year: pancakes. The 25-year-old midfielder, pivotal in Arsenal‘s title challenge, revealed he consumes up to eight pancakes on game days.

In an interview with Men’s Health UK, Rice admitted, “I have four pancakes before a game. Covered in syrup or honey. I swear to God, it’s the best thing…honestly, it’s been a game-changer.” Despite his uncertainty about the science behind it, Rice believes the pancakes provide an undeniable energy boost, contributing to his ability to “rattle around the pitch.”

There is indeed science behind what Rice is doing. Eating pancakes before a game, especially those covered in syrup or honey, can provide an immediate energy boost due to their high carbohydrate content. Carbohydrates are essential for athletes as they are broken down into glucose, which fuels muscles during a game.

Arsenal’s English midfielder #41 Declan Rice runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League Group B football match between Arsenal and Sevilla at the Emirates Stadium in north London on November 8, 2023. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Rice has the third-highest total carries in the league and tops the chart for starting moves that end with a shot.

Rice also spoke about his agility, a trait highlighted in his medical when joining Arsenal, as another key to his all-around game. “When I’m tackling, it allows my legs to go into positions that look a bit weird. It feels natural to me,” he explained.