🔗 Share this article

As I enter the room, the young midfielder grabs a soccer ball he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability convinced teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or coach, but his own father. “He was against me to play football simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his career in the game. A further barrier was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the club that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “shocked” to learn he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and European Arrival

This move put him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” states the youngster. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a concern for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “humility” and exceptional skills. He is also a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are notable assets. He admits a need to control his aggression, having been shown red early in his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Mentors and Future Ambitions

With his current club, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

Right now, attention is squarely on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England in their own country…,” he says, pointing to a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he remains committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he insists. However, he's often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the main top prize in the future.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.