Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara has opened up on his failed move to Chelsea on deadline day of the transfer window.
Foot Mercato report comments the 22-year-old today said a press conference for the Ligue 1 side.
For those that don’t know – which is unlikely to be many at this point – Lamine Camara was heavily involved in a deadline day drama for the ages.
Chelsea deal collapse
Chelsea wanted to sign him from Monaco but were initially blocked by the Ligue 1 side as they were selling Folarin Balogun to Everton instead.
But when problems arose in that deal, Monaco then opened the door to a potential deal late on as well. Then Everton revived their interest in the striker late on again, having received assurances and re-negotiated their deal with Monaco.
All looked comfortable until the American striker then decided to walk away from Finch Farm and cancel the deal. That then scuppered Camara’s deal too, as a term sheet had not been signed to take it beyond the deadline.
That left Camara at Monaco, disappointed. The club were equally disappointed as they needed the money from a sale. 10 days on, the plays is happy to admit as much.
“It was a somewhat turbulent and difficult time,” he said.
“But that’s part of a player’s life. I tried to remain professional, avoid dwelling on it, and move on so I could quickly focus on the upcoming match in Paris (September 4, a 2–1 win). Once it was over, there was no point thinking about it.”
Focus on the future
He is taking a professional stance to the situation, insisting that he’s moved on and focused on Monaco.
“Did I want to go to Chelsea? Saying that now would imply I’m no longer fully present with the team,” he added.
“Yes, there was a possibility I might leave, but it didn’t happen at the last minute. These things happen. Look at the example of Julian Alvarez with Atlético Madrid. It happens all over the world, and I’m trying to turn the page as quickly as possible to focus on the season.”
Indeed, he is even hoping to continue on his current path to ensure offers come back in future.
“If it doesn’t come back around, it will be because I gave up or didn’t work hard enough,” he concluded.
“If I keep going like this, I know I can help the team perform well. Football moves fast, and perhaps other chances will arise. But for now, I’m staying focused on the season.”
