🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and raw talent won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the hardest approval to secure was not a sporting director or coach, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the club that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning home,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Season and European Breakthrough

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the youngster. He has lived by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “humility” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a huge fan 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. He admits he must to control his competitive fire, after being shown red early in his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

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

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

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he is committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's often ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year in the future.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and build his own legendary path in the game.