Emmanuel Latte Lath scored three minutes into his Bundesliga debut

Emmanuel Latte Lath made a memorable impact in his Bundesliga debut for Union Berlin, scoring just three minutes into the match against Eintracht Frankfurt. At 27, this marked his first appearance in a major European league, and the goal represented a significant milestone in his football journey, which began in the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire before moving to Italy at the age of eight. This moment was particularly poignant for Latte Lath, as it signified the culmination of a challenging career path.

The striker transferred from Middlesbrough to Atlanta in Major League Soccer last year, a move that came with high expectations. Latte Lath acknowledged the pressure associated with this transfer, stating that it was difficult for him to meet those expectations. He reflected on his time in MLS, noting that while he scored eleven goals in 48 games, he felt he could have done more to justify his arrival at the club.

Latte Lath has fond memories of playing against Lionel Messi, describing the experience as unforgettable. He recalled feeling like a child in awe of his hero, even managing to touch Messi during the match. However, he also expressed some regrets about his career decisions, emphasising the importance of making choices for oneself rather than allowing others to influence those decisions.

His time at Middlesbrough was particularly fruitful, where he scored 29 goals under the guidance of Michael Carrick. Latte Lath praised Carrick's calm coaching style, which focused on analysis and communication during challenging moments. He believes that Carrick's approach helped the team navigate difficult situations effectively, highlighting the importance of listening and dialogue.

Now at Union Berlin, Latte Lath is adapting to a new environment and acknowledges the intensity of Bundesliga football. He has faced formidable opponents like Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich, viewing these experiences as opportunities for growth. With the support of a mental coach, he is learning to balance his professional and personal life, especially as he embraces fatherhood and aims to become a leader on the pitch.

via Sky Sports