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As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara picks up a football he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” states this Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent convinced clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure was not a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, the scouts were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and European Arrival

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, though tired, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his nation to victory and being named player of the tournament.

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 has lived alone in Europe, a choice his family support to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Distractions are not really a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “humility” and superb playing qualities. He is also a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are key strengths. He admits a need to control his aggression, having been sent off early in his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Goals

With his current club, he values learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” he said.

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he says, pointing to a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about targeting the senior top prize down the line.

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

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the game.