🔗 Share this article

When I enter the room, the young midfielder picks up a soccer ball he clings to until after the conversation. 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,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and raw talent convinced clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He was against me playing soccer simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his path in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the academy. They prevented me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Breakthrough

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his country to victory and being named best player.

A month later, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” states the 21-year-old. He resides alone in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

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

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are key strengths. Camara confesses a need to control his competitive fire, having been sent off early in his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It is a habit that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

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

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he insists. However, he's frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about targeting the senior top prize down the line.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the world of football.