No one touched his boots - Ashley Cole opens up on Didier Drogba's rituals before games

Former Chelsea star Ashley Cole has shed light on Didier Drogba’s unique pre-match routines, offering a glimpse into the Ivorian legend's intense preparation before games.

Drogba, who remains a beloved figure at Chelsea for his extraordinary performances, had a ritual involving his boots that no teammate dared to disrupt. Speaking on the Football's Greatest podcast, Cole explained the importance Drogba placed on this routine.

"He was possessed. He had these rituals in the dressing room after the kit man laid out the equipment," Cole told former Chelsea attacker, Joe Cole.

Cole revealed that Drogba's boots had to be prepared with precision, including being treated with hot water to reach the perfect temperature. Any misstep in this process could upset the striker.

"I have seen him lose it a little bit because his boots are not stretched and put in the hot water properly for the right amount of time. He doesn't like it."

"His boots were always at last," he added.
Ashley Cole and Didier Drogba shared six successful years at Chelsea. Cole joined the club in 2006, two years after Drogba arrived from Olympique Marseille.

The duo contributed to one of the most successful eras in Chelsea's history, winning numerous trophies together.

Their achievements included a Premier League title, multiple FA Cups, an EFL Cup, a Community Shield, and the iconic UEFA Champions League victory in 2012. Drogba left Chelsea shortly after that triumph, while Cole departed two years later in 2014.