🔗 Share this article

When I enter the space, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he won’t let go of throughout our chat. This serves as a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure was not a sporting director or coach, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” he received his father’s blessing to chase his career in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After he earned the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and Continental Breakthrough

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to victory and earning player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise aren't a concern for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. He is also a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are notable assets. He admits he must to control his competitive fire, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

At Monaco, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. After defeating England on their soil…,” he states, pointing to a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

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

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. If you beat England in their own country… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines humble beginnings, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the game.