🔗 Share this article

When I enter the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he won’t let go of until after the conversation. This serves as a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his career in the sport. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

Nevertheless, the famed academy – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They prevented me from returning home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Breakthrough

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his country to victory and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his relatives support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

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

His powerful shot and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits he must to control his competitive fire, after being shown red early in his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

With his current club, he values learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” he said.

Currently, attention 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 historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. He is often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about targeting the main top prize in the future.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. If you beat England in their own country… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.