🔗 Share this article

As I enter the room, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to until after our chat. This serves as a powerful symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult approval to secure was not a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He was against me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the academy. They prevented me from going back home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

That decision set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his nation to victory and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” says the youngster. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his family support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb playing qualities. He is also 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 key strengths. Camara confesses he must to temper his aggression, having been shown red early in his spells at each French club. “It is a habit that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Future Ambitions

With his current club, he cherishes the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

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

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I feel really at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

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

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to continental glory and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.