Emmanuel Latte Lath’s first Bundesliga goal for Union Berlin came just three minutes after he stepped onto the pitch, a moment he described as an “explosion” of emotion. The 27‑year‑old, who began his career in Ivory Coast before moving to Italy at eight, celebrated the goal with a header against Eintracht Frankfurt. The strike marked the culmination of a journey that had seen him leave his homeland, rise through the ranks of Atalanta, and later find a home at Middlesbrough before a high‑profile move to MLS side Atlanta United.
Latte Lath’s transfer to Atlanta United last season was worth £22.5 million, a figure that added considerable pressure to an already demanding role. He admitted that the expectations were “really, really difficult” and that he struggled to meet them, finishing the campaign with eleven goals in 48 appearances. “I wanted to show them why I arrived there, but it didn’t work,” he said, reflecting on the gap between his ambitions and the reality of his performance in the United States.
The Ivorian striker also recalled memorable moments from his career, including a chance to play against Lionel Messi and even touch the Argentine superstar. “It was unbelievable, I will never forget it,” he laughed. When asked about regrets, Latte Lath stressed the importance of staying true to one’s own path. “If I could talk to my younger self, I would say to take more decisions for myself and not let others dictate my choices,” he said.
A key influence on Latte Lath’s development was former Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick, who oversaw all 29 of the striker’s goals for the club. The player praised Carrick’s calm demeanor and his ability to listen to the squad, noting that the former United defender never “screamed” during tough moments. Instead, Carrick would analyse the situation and guide the team through constructive conversation, a method Latte Lath believes helped him grow both on and off the field.
In addition to his on‑field adjustments, Latte Lath has begun working with a mental coach to address his psychological needs. He admitted initial mistrust but now values the coach’s role in helping him understand himself and navigate life beyond football, especially after becoming a father. “It’s not just about training; it’s about becoming a better man,” he said.
Now adapting to a new coach, system, and the intensity of the Bundesliga, Latte Lath is focused on learning from each match, whether against Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, or other top sides. He sees each game as an opportunity to sharpen his movement and decision‑making, aiming to become a leader for Union Berlin. With the season still in its early stages, the striker remains determined to keep improving and to help his team compete at the highest level.