🔗 Share this article

When I enter the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he won’t let go of until after our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” remarks the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or manager, but his own father. “He was against me to play football but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his career in the game. A further barrier was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They prevented me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Arrival

That decision set him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” states the youngster. He has lived alone in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits he must to temper his aggression, after being sent off early in his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Ambitions

With his current club, he cherishes the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

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

Regarding a future move to the Premier League, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year in the future.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country… it instills confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.