🔗 Share this article

When I enter the space, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he won’t let go of until after our chat. This serves as a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability convinced teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the most difficult person to convince was not a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football but it’s because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his career in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the academy. They prevented me from going back home,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Breakthrough

That decision set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his country to victory and earning best player.

A month later, he was unveiled as 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 choice his family support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a problem for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb playing qualities. He is also a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses he must to temper his aggression, after being shown red early in his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Ambitions

At Monaco, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested 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. After defeating England on their soil…,” he says, pointing to a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he remains committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's frequently ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about winning the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England at Wembley… it instills confidence.”

Looking ahead, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.