🔗 Share this article

When I enter the room, the young midfielder picks up a football he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a simple symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his path in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, the famed academy – the club 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 “astonished” to discover he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back to Casamance,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and European Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with him lifting the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to the title and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his family encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from dead-ball situations are notable assets. He admits he must to temper his competitive fire, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Ambitions

With his current club, he cherishes the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

Currently, his focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he says, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the English top flight, he is committed to Monaco for now. “I am very comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about winning the main 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.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to lead Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.