🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the room, Lamine Camara grabs a football he won’t let go of throughout our chat. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” remarks this Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or coach, it was from his dad. “He was against me to play football but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” he received his dad's approval to chase his path in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and European Breakthrough

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his country to the title and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” states the youngster. He has lived by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses he must to control his aggression, after being sent off at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Ambitions

With his current club, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” he said.

Currently, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he says, pointing to a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about targeting the senior top prize down the line.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.