The Secret World of Champions League Pre-Match Meals

Forget the football. For clubs in Europe’s elite competition, the Champions League experience often begins far from the pitch — in some of the continent’s most prestigious restaurants. These pre-match meals, attended by owners, directors, and high-profile guests, are more than just gastronomic indulgence. They serve as a stage for political manoeuvring, business discussions, and cultural diplomacy — but they can also lead to awkward missteps.

Here’s a closer look at this lesser-known ritual and its role in the spectacle of the Champions League.

A Culinary Tradition with High Stakes

Take Zalacaín, a fine-dining restaurant in Madrid, for example. Just two kilometres from the Santiago Bernabéu, it’s a favourite spot for Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez to host visiting executives. When Manchester City came to town in April 2024, the meal wasn’t just a private affair — Real Madrid even promoted it on their social media channels.

For some clubs, these meals are about asserting their identity. Real’s use of such public settings contrasts with the more private approach seen elsewhere. For example, Aston Villa prefer to host visiting dignitaries at Villa Park rather than in Birmingham’s restaurants, blending tradition with discretion.

These meals can also make headlines. In 2023, when Chelsea played Real Madrid, then-co-owner Todd Boehly predicted a 3-0 Chelsea win after the pre-match meal — a bold claim that backfired when his team lost both legs of the tie 2-0. The comments intensified scrutiny of Boehly’s stewardship during a difficult season for the London club.