🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara picks up a football he won’t let go of throughout our chat. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” states the Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability convinced teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the most difficult person to convince was not a club executive or manager, but his own father. “He was against me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” he received his father’s blessing to chase his career in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, the famed academy – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After he earned the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “They took me straight to the academy. They prevented me from going back home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Arrival

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his nation to victory and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” states the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a choice his family support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are notable assets. Camara confesses he must to temper his aggression, after being shown red early in his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

With his current club, he values learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Currently, attention is squarely on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I am very comfortable here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about targeting the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England at Wembley… it instills confidence.”

Looking ahead, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and build his own legendary path in the game.