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As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has always held onto. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” states the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult person to convince was not a club executive or manager, but his own father. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

Eventually, 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 local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They prevented me from returning home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and Continental Breakthrough

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough was 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 country to victory and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the youngster. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his family encourage 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 “humility” and superb skills. He is also 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. Camara confesses he must to control his aggression, having been shown red early in his spells at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” he said.

Currently, his focus is firmly 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 says, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

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

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. If you beat England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to guide Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.