🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a football he clings to throughout our chat. This serves as a simple visual metaphor for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent convinced clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the hardest approval to secure was not a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his path in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They prevented me from returning home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and European Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading 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,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived by himself in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to control his competitive fire, having been sent off at the start of his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he quips.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Ambitions

At Monaco, he values the guidance of 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 firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England in their own country…,” he states, pointing to a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I am very comfortable here,” he affirms. He is frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about winning the main Africa Player of the Year in the future.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England in their own country… it instills confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and build his own legendary path in the world of football.