🔗 Share this article

As I enter the room, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout the conversation. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent convinced clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult approval to secure was not a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer simply because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his path in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which deterred local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “They took me directly to the training centre. They prevented me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and European Arrival

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to victory and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his family support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a huge fan 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. He admits a need to temper his aggression, after being sent off at the start of his spells 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 cherishes the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Currently, attention is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, pointing to a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the main top prize down the line.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. If you beat England at Wembley… it instills belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the game.