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When I enter the room, the young midfielder grabs a football he won’t let go of throughout our chat. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. However, the most difficult person to convince didn't come from a sporting director or coach, it was from his dad. “He was against me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his career in the sport. A further barrier was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

However, Génération Foot – the club that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “They took me directly to the training centre. They prevented me from going back home,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Season and Continental Arrival

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with him lifting the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his nation to the title and earning player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb skills. He is also a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from dead-ball situations are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to control his aggression, after being sent off early in his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Ambitions

At Monaco, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” he said.

Currently, attention is squarely on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about targeting the main top prize in the future.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country… it instills confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to continental glory and build his own lasting legacy in the world of football.