🔗 Share this article

As I enter the space, the young midfielder grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout the conversation. 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 won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He was against me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” he received his father’s blessing to chase his career in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

Nevertheless, the famed academy – the club that produced stars like 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 learn he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the academy. They prevented me from returning home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and Continental Arrival

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with him lifting the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his country to victory and earning best player.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” states the youngster. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his relatives support to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb skills. He is also a huge fan of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from set pieces are key strengths. He admits he must to control his aggression, having been sent off early in his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Mentors and Future Ambitions

At Monaco, he cherishes the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” he said.

Currently, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about targeting the senior top prize down the line.

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

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.