Lamine Camara of FC Metz has been honored as the Best Young African Footballer of the Year 2023, marking a remarkable ascendancy in his football career. Camara’s exceptional year, earning him the coveted title, was celebrated during the prestigious CAF Awards ceremony in Marrakech, where he surpassed top contenders Abdessamad Ezzalzouli from Morocco and compatriot Amara Diouf.
This accolade signifies a significant milestone for the young midfielder, as he follows in the footsteps of his compatriot Pape Matar Sarr, who claimed the title last year after securing victory at the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon.
Camara, on the verge of turning twenty in early 2024, experienced a meteoric rise in the footballing realm throughout 2023, both in club and national endeavors.
His accomplishments were prolific, marked notably by his pivotal role in guiding the U20 selection to triumph at the African Nations Championship in Algeria and subsequently leading them to their maiden continental coronation in Egypt. His stellar performances earned him recognition as the best player in the tournament.
Transitioning from his training club Génération Foot to FC Metz, Camara seamlessly integrated into László Bölöni’s system, contributing significantly to the club’s ascent to Ligue 1.
His impact extended to the French elite level, showcasing a consistent display of skill and earning his maiden selection for Aliou Cissé’s national team last September, where he notably faced Algeria.
Camara’s rapid progress continued with the senior national team, securing a spot in the starting lineup against South Sudan in November and scoring his debut goal for the National A Team. With the impending CAN in Côte d’Ivoire, Camara’s trajectory appears set for a promising future, mirroring the trajectory of his compatriot Amara Diouf, another finalist for the distinguished award.
The recognition further solidifies Camara’s potential for a standout career ahead, hinting at a future luminous with accomplishments and contributions to African football.
Notre prix de Jeune Joueur de l’Année 2023 revient à .. 🥁
🇸🇳 Lamine Camara 🇸🇳#CAFAwards2023 pic.twitter.com/U9A6gOIcfh
— CAF – FR (@caf_online_FR) December 11, 2023
