🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the room, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he won’t let go of until after our chat. This serves as a simple symbol for a dream he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and raw talent won over clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his career in the sport. A further barrier was his modest frame, which deterred local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the club that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They prevented me from going back home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Arrival

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his country to victory and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He resides alone in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are notable assets. He admits he must to temper his competitive fire, after being shown red at the start of his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It is a habit that is following me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” he said.

Currently, his focus is squarely on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, pointing to a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about winning the senior top prize in the future.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. Having beaten England in their own country… it instills belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.