🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the room, the young midfielder grabs a football he won’t let go of throughout our chat. This serves as a simple symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and raw talent convinced clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest person to convince was not a club executive or manager, but his own father. “He was against me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to pursue his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, the famed academy – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They prevented me from going back home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and European Arrival

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a choice his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Distractions are not really a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from dead-ball situations are key strengths. Camara confesses a need to temper his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Ambitions

With his current club, he values the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Right now, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – 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 remains committed to Monaco at present. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. He is often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about targeting the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England at Wembley… it instills confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.