Who do U.S. men’s national team star Christian Pulisic, Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, and Serie A players like Jamie Vardy and Santiago Gimenez all have in common? Their personal chef, Leonardo Cannavale, popularly known as Gordon Lenni, has quickly become an essential figure in Milan for numerous Serie A players. He started working with players in 2024 and has gained a reputation, recently crafting a Thanksgiving dinner for Pulisic just days after his triumph in the Derby della Madonnina.

Cannavale explained, “Players’ healthy nutrition has become increasingly central to their physical recovery each week,” highlighting the need for tailored dietary plans for athletes. His clients now include footballers, tennis players, and beyond. He has also developed meal plans that allow easy reheating, ensuring that athletes maintain proper nutrition despite busy schedules. “I believe home nutrition will become even more crucial to a player’s health routine in the future,” he added, emphasizing how it aids in injury prevention and enhances overall performance.

For Pulisic, he prepared a classic Thanksgiving meal that included turkey, green beans, and sweet potatoes with marshmallows, but he skipped dessert due to an upcoming match against Lazio. As Cannavale stated, “It feels incredible to be part of their special moments.”

Thanks to his growing network, he has built close relationships with players, which is integral to his success. From preparing healthy meals to maintaining their lifestyles, Gordon Lenni is now synonymous with nutrition among the elite of Serie A.