🔗 Share this article

As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout the conversation. This serves as a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states this Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult person to convince was not a club executive or manager, but his own father. “He was against me to play football simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his path in the sport. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and European Breakthrough

That decision put him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his nation to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he signed for FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

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

His ball striking and precision from dead-ball situations are notable assets. He admits he must to temper his aggression, having been sent off early in his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he values the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Right now, attention is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he is committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he insists. He is often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country… it instills confidence.”

Looking ahead, Lamine Camara blends a modest start, steely determination, and grand ambitions targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the game.