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As I walk into the room, the young midfielder grabs a football he won’t let go of throughout the conversation. This serves as a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “My sole focus was football; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability convinced clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest person to convince was not a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

In time, on “a special day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to chase his career in the sport. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the club that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a choice his relatives encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. He is also a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits a need to temper his competitive fire, after being sent off early in his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

With his current club, he values the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” he said.

Currently, attention is squarely on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he remains committed to Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he affirms. He is frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the senior top prize in the future.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. If you beat England in their own country… it gives you belief.”

Looking ahead, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.