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When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or manager, but his own father. “He was against me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

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

Nevertheless, the famed academy – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following Camara was named the MVP in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Year and Continental Breakthrough

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his country to victory and earning player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” states the youngster. He resides by himself in Europe, a choice his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and exceptional skills. 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 key strengths. He admits a need to temper his competitive fire, having been shown red at the start of his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Ambitions

With his current club, he values 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.

Currently, attention 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, pointing to a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he insists. He is frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, 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. Having beaten England in their own country… it instills belief.”

Looking ahead, Lamine Camara combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.