🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara grabs a football he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a simple symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the hardest approval to secure was not a club executive or coach, it was from his dad. “He was against me to play football but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his path in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following Camara was named the best player in a local competition, the scouts were “shocked” to learn he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and European Breakthrough

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his country to the title and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” states the 21-year-old. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his family encourage to keep him focused.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb skills. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are key strengths. He admits he must to control his aggression, after being shown red early in his spells at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

With his current club, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

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

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he remains committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. He is frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about targeting the main top prize in the future.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.