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As I enter the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to until after our chat. 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 AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and raw talent won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult person to convince was not a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his career in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

Nevertheless, 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, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Year and European Breakthrough

That decision set him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to victory and earning player of the tournament.

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

Influences and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional skills. He is also 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 notable assets. He admits a need to temper his aggression, after being sent off at the start of his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Future Goals

With his current club, he cherishes learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Currently, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about targeting the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the game.