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As I walk into the space, Lamine Camara grabs a football he clings to until after the conversation. This serves as a simple symbol for a dream he has always held onto. “My sole focus was football; my mind was set on nothing else,” states this Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He was against me to play football simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his career in the sport. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following Camara was named the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “shocked” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “I was taken straight to the academy. They prevented me from going back home,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Breakthrough

This move set him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his nation to the title and being named best player.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived by himself in Europe, a situation his family support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb playing qualities. He is also 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. Camara confesses a need to control his aggression, after being sent off at the start of his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” he said.

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

On a potential future move to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. He is often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's 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 – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England in their own country… it instills belief.”

Moving forward, Lamine Camara blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the game.