🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the space, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he won’t let go of throughout our chat. This serves as a powerful symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted football; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult person to convince was not 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,” says Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his career in the game. A further barrier was his modest frame, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the club that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They moved fast. “They took me directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from going back to Casamance,” Camara said.

A Landmark Year and Continental Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his nation to victory and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” says the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a choice his family encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “humility” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. Camara confesses a need to temper his competitive fire, having been sent off at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

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

Right now, attention 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 says, referencing a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he affirms. He is frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about winning the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. If you beat England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Looking ahead, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to guide Senegal to continental glory and build his own legendary path in the game.