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When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara grabs a football he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a dream he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or coach, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

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

However, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the best player in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They prevented me from returning home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and Continental Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his country to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a choice his family support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from dead-ball situations are notable assets. He admits a need to control his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he cherishes the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – there's no denying it. After defeating England in their own country…,” he says, pointing to a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “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, yet remains determined about targeting the main top prize in the future.

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

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