A coach who emerged victorious at the latest Africa Cup of Nations has revealed that fame has drastically increased his profile since.
Emerse Fae shocked the continent when he won AFCON 2023 with hosts Ivory Coast, after taking over from Jean-Louis Gasset who had departed the side midway through the tournament.
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The Elephants had just picked up one win from their three group-stage games, but managed to make it through to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed qualifiers.
The 40-year-old then led the side to victories over Mali, DR Congo and Nigeria in the final to secure the country's third continental crown.
Fae reflected on the tournament recently, and revealed what the consequences would likely have been for him if the side did not go all the way.
"Initially, I didn't think twice [to take charge of Ivory Coast]. I accepted immediately because it's my country, and I love my country," he said, per CAFOnline.
"I'm not afraid of challenges or objectives, nor of taking risks. Knowing the group for a year and a half, I was confident in what we could bring to change the team's mindset.
"Thanks to God, we found success. As a young coach, I was previously unknown in this role.
"Had I failed at the AFCON, it would have been challenging for me to secure another opportunity in Cote d'Ivoire and Africa."
The coach was then asked how winning the tournament has changed his life.
He replied: "It's quite difficult to go out in Abidjan or even anywhere in Africa.
"During my last visit to Cameroon, I noticed many Ivorian supporters at the hotel wanting to take photos and engage with me. This shows a significant change.
"My fame has significantly increased. However, I remain approachable and enjoy interaction.
"Sometimes, it's tough to turn down a request for a photo or a football discussion.
"While things have changed, engaging with people remains a crucial part of my work. I try to take the positives from this situation, as it could be much more complex otherwise.
"I'm delighted to share these moments with Ivoirians and Africans who appreciate my work.
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The former assistant manager also said he has big ambitions going forward, and added that one of them is to win AFCON 2025 in order to prove his side's success "was not merely a fluke".
"The World Cup is also a goal, aiming for Cote d'Ivoire to regain its place on the international stage. Since 2014, our country has been absent from this event," Fae added.
"We aspire to qualify and represent Africa, inspired by Morocco's success in 2022, which greatly motivates us."