New AS Monaco manager Filipe Luis has made it clear that Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara is central to his plans after praising the player following the club’s 3-2 friendly victory over Liverpool.
The Brazilian coach, who is beginning his first steps in European management, has quickly identified Camara as an important part of the Monaco side and expressed his hope that the midfielder will remain at the club.
Camara’s future has been the subject of growing speculation this summer, with Manchester United reported to be interested in the Senegal international. Monaco are said to value the midfielder at around €50m, while Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace have also been linked with him.
But Luis appears determined to keep the 22-year-old at Monaco and has already outlined the significant role he expects Camara to play under his management.
Speaking after Monaco’s victory at Liverpool, Luis was emphatic in his assessment of the Senegal midfielder.
“We’re probably talking about one of the best midfielders in the world. He’s got real quality on the ball, covers a huge amount of ground—he’s absolutely top class.” he said.
The former Brazilian player went beyond praising Camara’s ability, making it clear that the midfielder features prominently in his plans for the coming season.
“He’s going to have a key role in my system. I’m hopeful he’ll stay. I think he’s happy at Monaco.” he added.
Luis’s comments come at a significant point in Camara’s Monaco career, with the midfielder previously appearing to be among the players who could leave the club during the current transfer window.
The reported interest from several clubs has increased uncertainty over his future. Manchester United are among those said to be monitoring the Senegal international, with Monaco reportedly placing a €50m valuation on the player.
Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace have also been mentioned as interested clubs.
However, Luis’s public backing suggests Monaco’s new manager would prefer the midfielder to remain in the squad rather than being sold.
Camara has already built a strong reputation in African football. He has been named Africa’s best young player twice, receiving the award in 2023 and 2024.
His performances have now earned further recognition from Luis, who believes the midfielder possesses the qualities required to make a major contribution to Monaco’s ambitions.
The coach’s assessment was delivered after Monaco’s impressive pre-season result against Liverpool, with the French side scoring three goals to secure a 3-2 victory.
For Luis, the match provided an opportunity to assess his players as he begins his tenure at Monaco. Camara’s performance and his importance to the team’s midfield appear to have reinforced the manager’s desire to retain him.
Luis’s arrival represents a new chapter for Monaco, and his early comments about Camara indicate that the midfielder could occupy an important position in his tactical plans.
The coach’s belief in the Senegal international also comes as speculation continues to surround the player’s future.
While interest from Manchester United and other clubs could test Monaco’s resolve, Luis has publicly stated his preference for Camara to stay.
His comments also suggest that the manager believes the midfielder is settled at Monaco and could be willing to remain with the club.
“He’s going to have a key role in my system. I’m hopeful he’ll stay. I think he’s happy at Monaco.” he added.
That message could become important as the transfer window progresses, particularly with Monaco reportedly valuing Camara at around €50m.
For now, Luis has made his position clear. He regards Camara as an elite midfielder, wants him to remain at Monaco and intends to give him a prominent role in his system.
The next stage will depend on whether Monaco can resist the reported interest and keep hold of one of their most highly regarded young players.
With Manchester United, Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace reportedly interested, Camara’s future remains a significant talking point.
But after his first major assessment of the midfielder, Luis has left little doubt about what he wants: Camara to stay and become a key figure in his Monaco team.
