🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; my mind was set on nothing else,” states this Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and raw talent convinced teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

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

However, the famed academy – the club 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, the scouts were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the academy. They prevented me from returning home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and European Arrival

That decision set him on a trajectory 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 U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” states the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb skills. He is also a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are key strengths. Camara confesses a need to temper his aggression, having been shown red early in his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit that is following me!” he quips.

Monaco, Mentors and Future Goals

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

Right now, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, pointing to a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. He is often ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year in the future.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the world of football.