🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara picks up a football he clings to until after our chat. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has always held onto. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure was not a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He was against me to play football but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his career in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back to Casamance,” Camara said.

A Landmark Year and European Arrival

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the youngster. He resides by himself in Europe, a choice his relatives support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb skills. He is also a huge fan of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to control his competitive fire, having been sent off early in his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he quips.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

With his current club, he values learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Currently, his focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he says, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. He is often ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the senior top prize down the line.

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

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.