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When I enter the room, Lamine Camara picks up a football he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a simple symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted football; my mind was set on nothing else,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and raw talent won over clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest person to convince was not a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his path in the sport. A further barrier was his modest frame, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

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

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Arrival

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he signed for FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a choice his family encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and On-Field Identity

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb skills. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from dead-ball situations are notable assets. He admits a need to control his competitive fire, having been shown red early in his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he values the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” he said.

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 win in Nottingham.

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he affirms. He is often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the main top prize down the line.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Looking ahead, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to continental glory and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.