🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a football he won’t let go of throughout the conversation. This serves as a powerful symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “My sole focus was football; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his path in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After he earned the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and Continental Breakthrough

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived by himself in Europe, a choice his relatives support to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits he must to control his aggression, having been sent off early in his spells at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he quips.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he cherishes the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” he said.

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country…,” he says, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. He is often ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about targeting the main top prize down the line.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England at Wembley… it instills belief.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.