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As I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a football he clings to throughout our chat. 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,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

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

Surmounting Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to pursue his path in the sport. Another challenge was his small stature, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “They took me directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Breakthrough

That decision set him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to victory and earning best player.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a choice his family support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and superb playing qualities. He is also a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from set pieces are key strengths. He admits a need to temper his competitive fire, having been sent off at the start of his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

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

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

On a potential transfer to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country… it instills confidence.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to continental glory and build his own legendary path in the world of football.