🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the space, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he won’t let go of until after our chat. This serves as a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “a special day,” he received his father’s blessing to pursue his career in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which deterred local club Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the best player in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They prevented me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his nation to the title and being named best player.

A month later, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” states the youngster. He has lived by himself in Europe, a choice his family encourage to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb skills. Additionally, he's a huge fan of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

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

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Goals

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

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

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I am very comfortable here,” he insists. He is often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about winning the senior top prize down the line.

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

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.