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When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to until after our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a dream he has never let slip. “My sole focus was football; I was focused solely on that,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest approval to secure was not a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his career in the sport. Another challenge was his small stature, which deterred local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “They took me straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and Continental Breakthrough

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his country to victory and being named best player.

A month later, he signed for FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a choice his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to temper his aggression, after being shown red early in his spells at each French club. “It is a habit that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Ambitions

At Monaco, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

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

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I am very comfortable here,” he insists. He is often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the senior top prize down the line.

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

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to continental glory and build his own lasting legacy in the game.