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When I walk into the room, the young midfielder grabs a football he clings to throughout our chat. This serves as a simple visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states this Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and raw talent won over clubs like 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 playing soccer simply because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “a special day,” he received his father’s blessing to pursue his career in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back to Casamance,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Breakthrough

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his country to the title and being named best player.

Soon after, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his family support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are key strengths. He admits he must to temper his aggression, having been sent off early in his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he quips.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Ambitions

At Monaco, he cherishes learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” he said.

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. He is often ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England at Wembley… it instills confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the game.