🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the space, the young midfielder picks up a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. This serves as a powerful visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and natural ability convinced clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the most difficult person to convince was not a club executive or coach, it was from his dad. “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,” he received his father’s blessing to chase his path in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, the famed academy – the club that nurtured 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 “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the academy. They didn’t want me from going back home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Breakthrough

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to the title and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” states the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his family encourage to maintain his concentration.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise are not really a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and superb playing qualities. He is also a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. Camara confesses he must to control his competitive fire, having been shown red early in his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he quips.

Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Ambitions

At Monaco, he cherishes the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” he said.

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

Regarding a future move to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about winning the main top prize down the line.

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

Looking ahead, Lamine Camara combines a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to lead Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.