"We all live on the same planet"

Diadie and Jérôme, the match on Saturday against VfL Bochum is being billed as TSG Hoffenheim's "Africa match day". How do you rate TSG's commitment to Africa?

Diadie Samassékou: "It's a great thing. TSG do a lot and support several projects. That is not just a matter of course. In Africa, they really appreciate it because people know it's not that easy. As a team, we are also trying to push things forward and support aid organisations."

Jérôme Monteu Nana: "I can only agree and praise the projects as well. Unfortunately, however, there are so many problems that ordinary citizens are not yet aware of the aid. But TSG has plenty of initiatives that can be built on. We need to work together to make projects bigger so more people can benefit from them. We are going in the right direction."

Do you have projects that are particularly close to your heart?

Jérôme Monteu Nana: "SAP have given me many opportunities and are trying to help as many people as possible. I have travelled through several countries in Africa for SAP and have shown and taught young people how to code. I am also engaged in my private life and do my best. Twice a year, I travel to my home country and try to help out on the ground."

Diadie Samassékou: "I myself have a foundation in Mali. We take care of the families of soldiers and help the survivors if the soldiers do not return to their families. I also want to support poorer families, for example, during religious festivals such as Ramadan."

How important is it to support Africa as a continent?

Jérôme Monteu Nana: "It's a sign of solidarity. In Africa, every type of support is needed. People and countries that are in a better financial position can help. As an African, of course, I feel obliged to help. But at the end of the day, we all live on the same planet. What's more, all countries will benefit if there is a higher standard of living in Africa."

Diadie Samassékou: "The support means a huge amount to the people. The standard of living in Europe is different from that in Africa. But still, it is not a matter of course that projects in other countries will be funded. That's why every bit of help is accepted with gratitude."

How can football help give children in Africa a better future?

Diadie Samassékou: "Football can give you everything. No matter which continent you come from. In Africa, every boy probably dreams of becoming a professional footballer. This has been the case for us for generations. There are also a huge number of talented youngsters, but they need the right support. It would be all the more important for an African country to achieve something great at a World Cup."

Jérôme Monteu Nana: "Professional footballers are the best role models for children. They want to be like you. (turns to Samassékou) Your life gives them the courage and confidence that they too can make their big dreams a reality. However, more and more young adults are also taking the chance to Germany to look for a different profession. An education in Germany is highly valued worldwide. And of course, you shouldn't just focus on the dream of becoming a professional footballer, so it's a good idea."

Is there a common identity that unites the countries of Africa?

Diadie Samassékou: "There is a wide variety of cultures in Africa, and as a result the countries are all different. But if I had to emphasise one thing in common, it would be the mentality. We always give it our all and try to make the most of our situations."

Jérôme Monteu Nana: "Everyone loves football. The sport is bigger than any religion here. We will see that again at the World Cup – if not before. No matter which African team is playing, all Africans will stick together. Football unites everyone in Africa."

How well known are TSG in Africa?

Diadie Samassékou: "When I'm in my home country, people always talk to me about TSG. I also believe that the club is becoming increasingly well-known and followed not only in Mali, but throughout Africa. I am very pleased that I am playing my part in this."

Jérôme Monteu Nana: "It's the players who make the club known. Of course, TSG are not yet on Bayern Munich's level [of fame], but more and more people are paying attention to them. Social projects also help massively. People really appreciate what TSG are doing in Africa."