A Day in the Life of a Footballer: Sadio Mané’s Daily Routine
Every day, I usually wake up early. To be honest, I’ve always been an early riser. The first thing I do is take a shower and say a prayer—it’s the same routine every morning.
Depending on our training schedule, what I do next may vary. Although our report time is typically around 9:30 a.m., I like to arrive an hour early. I usually meet with the medical staff for treatment and then head to the gym to prepare for the day’s session.
Every athlete is different—some go for treatment, others don’t. Personally, I always want to feel at my best, so I make it a priority. I speak to the doctors about any small issues, whether it’s tightness in my groin, calf, hamstring, or back. Every percentage counts at this level, so staying in top shape is key.
Most mornings, I eat breakfast at home, but if I have to report early, I’ll eat at Melwood. My meals vary—sometimes oatmeal, sometimes eggs and toast, or even almonds with fruit and yogurt. I don’t have a favorite meal, but I always make sure it’s healthy. That’s non-negotiable for me.
Over time, I’ve learned to listen to my body more. When I was younger, I didn’t really understand the importance of nutrition, sleep, or preparation. Now I believe young athletes should start early—eat well, sleep early, and train smart. Making the most of the resources around you helps you stay at your peak longer.
In the evenings, I usually have dinner around 7:30 p.m. Again, a nutritious meal is essential. After that, I sometimes scroll through social media, though I don’t post much. Occasionally, I share something on Instagram, but I’m not very active online.
What matters most to me is staying connected with my family. I talk to my mother, uncle, and sisters every day. They’re back home, and although I used to miss home a lot, I’ve adjusted to life in Europe. I love my country, and I’d be happy to return one day—but while I’m working here, I focus on the present.
I’m also used to staying in hotels for long periods, like many footballers. It helps me stay focused. When traveling, I eat at the hotel, then head back to my room to relax—maybe watch a movie or a show on my iPad before bed. No matter where I am, I always get good sleep.