🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a football he won’t let go of throughout the conversation. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” remarks the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and natural ability convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or manager, but his own father. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “They took me directly to the training centre. They prevented me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Year and Continental Breakthrough

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough 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 nation to victory and being named best player.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” states the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise aren't a concern for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “humility” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's 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 a need to control his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Ambitions

With his current club, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Right now, attention is squarely on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – there's no denying it. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he is committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. He is frequently teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about winning the main top prize down the line.

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

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.