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As I enter the space, Lamine Camara grabs a soccer ball he won’t let go of throughout the conversation. It’s a powerful symbol for a dream he has never let slip. “My sole focus was football; I was focused solely on that,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

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

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the MVP in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back home,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his country to victory and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his family encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to 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 powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. He admits a need to control his competitive fire, having been sent off early in his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Mentors and Future Ambitions

At Monaco, he cherishes the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Currently, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, pointing to a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. However, he's often ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about winning the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

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