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When I walk into the room, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. 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 midfielder.

His resolve and natural ability convinced clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me playing soccer but it’s because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” he received his dad's approval to chase his career in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Breakthrough

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived by himself in Europe, a choice his family support to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Off-field noise aren't a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “humility” and superb skills. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. Camara confesses a need to control his competitive fire, after being shown red early in his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit that is following me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he values the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Right now, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England on their soil…,” he says, pointing to a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he is committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

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

Moving forward, Lamine Camara combines humble beginnings, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to continental glory and build his own lasting legacy in the game.