🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a soccer ball he clings to until after our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a dream he has never let slip. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent won over clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the most difficult approval to secure was not a club executive or coach, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to chase his path in the sport. A further barrier was his small stature, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and European Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to victory and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his family support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a concern for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb playing qualities. He is also a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits a need to temper his aggression, after being sent off early in his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Future Goals

At Monaco, he cherishes the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

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

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to continental glory and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.