In a quiet town near Paris, there lived a little boy with bright eyes, curly hair, and endless energy. His name was Paul. Paul loved football. Not just a little—but with all his heart.
He played in the streets, in the park, and even in the hallway at home. His football was always nearby—even next to his bed at night. Before falling asleep, he’d whisper to it: “One day, I’ll make the world smile—with you.”
Paul’s parents had come from Guinea, a country in West Africa. They worked hard and filled their home with love, respect, and gentle prayers. His mother often reminded him: “Keep your heart pure, work hard, and never forget to thank God.” Paul had two older brothers who also loved football.
The three of them played for hours—racing, laughing, learning, and growing stronger together. But Paul had something special. He didn’t just kick the ball—he danced with it. The ball moved with him, like they were best friends. People would stop and say: “Look at that boy! He plays like he’s smiling inside.” At school, Paul was helpful and kind. If a teammate fell, he’d help them up. If someone was left out, he’d pass them the ball.
Before every match, he would stand quietly, close his eyes, and whisper a prayer: “Help me play with respect. Help me play with heart.” Paul trained hard and played harder.
Step by step, he joined better teams—until one day, he wore the famous red jersey of Manchester United. Then came an even bigger dream: the blue jersey of France. In 2018, Paul helped France win the World Cup!
The world cheered. But Paul didn’t shout or boast. He knelt down, lifted his hands to the sky, and whispered: “Alhamdulillah.” (“All praise is to God.”) Even with all his fame, Paul stayed the same. He laughed often, helped others, and always remembered his faith.
He once said: “Being Muslim means being grateful, kind, and humble. Football is a blessing—I play with joy and thanks.” Now, kids all around the world dribble through their streets and dream big—just like Paul once did. And maybe, just before they sleep, they whisper to their ball: “One day, with you… I’ll change the world.”