Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara has admitted that his failed transfer to Chelsea on deadline day was a “turbulent and difficult time”. During the closing hours of the summer transfer window, Chelsea had an agreement with Monaco for the Senegal international. However, the Ligue 1 club backtracked on the deal just before the September 1 deadline, leaving Chelsea furious with Monaco and Camara to accept missing out on a high-profile transfer. The 22-year-old is currently part of a Monaco side that sit at the top of the Ligue 1 table , subsequently reducing the disappointment that he would have experienced.
Nevertheless, speaking at a press conference on Friday, Camara acknowledged that he has gone through a range of emotions. © Iconsport / Ben Roberts/Every Second Media/Alamy Live News
Camara speaks on failed Chelsea transfer As replayed by Foot Mercato , Camara said: “It was a somewhat turbulent and difficult time, 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 (a 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain). Once it was over, there was no point thinking about it.”
He added: “Did I want to go to Chelsea? Saying that now would imply I’m no longer fully present with the team.
“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. “If it doesn’t come back around, it will be because I gave up or didn’t work hard enough
“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.”
© Iconsport / ICONSPORT
Will Chelsea return for Camara in January?
If reports are to be believed, Chelsea will face fierce competition for Camara during the January transfer window. Monaco remain in a position where they need to raise funds, but competing for the Ligue 1 title may influence their stance on which players leave the club.