Monaco midfielder Denis Zakaria reflects on Lamine Camara’s failed Chelsea move

AS Monaco midfielder Denis Zakaria has backed Senegal international Lamine Camara to emerge stronger from the disappointment of his failed move to Chelsea, praising the youngster’s response following the dramatic collapse of the transfer.

Camara was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea on transfer deadline day, but the proposed switch broke down at the final stage, leaving the Senegal international at Monaco after the Principality club decided not to proceed with the deal.

The situation reportedly left Camara keen on securing the move, with Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro previously acknowledging that the midfielder had approached him and asked the club to facilitate a transfer.

Despite the disappointment, Camara has insisted that he has now “turned the page” and is focused on continuing his development and contributing to Monaco’s campaign.

The Senegal star also sought advice and encouragement from several of his teammates as he attempted to put the transfer saga behind him. One of the players he spoke with was Zakaria, who has experience of playing for Chelsea after spending a season on loan at Stamford Bridge.

Zakaria jokingly revealed that he had advised Camara to remain at Monaco rather than push for a move to Chelsea.

“Chelsea? I told him that it was good but that it is better here,” the Switzerland international said in a mixed-zone interview attended by Get French Football News.

Beyond the humour, Zakaria believes the transfer drama could ultimately prove beneficial for Camara, particularly in terms of his mentality and determination.

Speaking after Monaco’s 2-1 victory over RC Lens on Friday night, the experienced midfielder praised Camara’s professionalism and claimed that the failed transfer had given the Senegal international an additional source of motivation.

“I know the player and the person that he is; he is very professional. I think that [the transfer saga] has given him even more strength. He was incredible today,” Zakaria said.

Camara responded to the situation on the pitch by delivering an impressive performance in Monaco’s victory, providing a timely reminder of his importance to the team.

The 21-year-old midfielder has continued to attract attention following his rise in French football, while his performances for Senegal have further enhanced his reputation as one of Africa’s emerging midfield talents.

Although a move to Chelsea did not materialise before the transfer deadline, Camara now appears determined to concentrate on his responsibilities at Monaco.

For Zakaria, the most important thing is that his teammate has maintained his professionalism and used the disappointment as motivation rather than allowing the failed transfer to affect his performances.

With the transfer saga now behind him, Camara will look to maintain his form for Monaco and Senegal while continuing to develop into one of the most sought-after young midfielders in European football.