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As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a football he clings to throughout the conversation. It’s a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “My sole focus was football; I was focused solely on that,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and raw talent won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult person to convince was not a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his career in the sport. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, the famed academy – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “They took me straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Breakthrough

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his country to the title and being named best player.

Soon after, he was unveiled as FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his family support to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” 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 powerful shot and precision from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to control his competitive fire, after being shown red at the start of his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It is a habit that is following me!” he quips.

Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Goals

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

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he says, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the senior top prize in the future.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Looking ahead, Lamine Camara combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the world of football.