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When I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a football he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; my mind was set on nothing else,” states the Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure 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.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his career in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After he earned the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and Continental Breakthrough

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his nation to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he signed for FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his family encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. He is also a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to temper his aggression, after being sent off at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Ambitions

With his current club, he values the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Right now, attention is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he says, pointing to a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I am very 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. He laughs, but is serious about winning the main Africa Player of the Year in the future.

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

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.