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As I enter the space, Lamine Camara picks up a football he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states this Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and raw talent won over clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his path in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which deterred local club Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and European Arrival

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his country to the title and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a problem for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “humility” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from set pieces are key strengths. Camara confesses he must to control his competitive fire, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit that is following me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he values the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” he said.

Currently, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential transfer to the Premier League, he remains committed to Monaco for now. “I am very comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. If you beat England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, steely determination, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.