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When I walk into the space, Lamine Camara picks up a soccer ball he clings to until after our chat. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; my mind was set on nothing else,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability convinced teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the most difficult person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to pursue his path in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After he earned the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the academy. They prevented me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to the title and earning best player.

A month later, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a choice his family encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a huge fan of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits he must to control his aggression, after being shown red early in his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Ambitions

With his current club, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

Right now, attention is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. He is often ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, but is serious about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the game.