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As I enter the space, the young midfielder grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout the conversation. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “My sole focus was the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent convinced clubs like Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the most difficult person to convince was not a club executive or coach, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his father’s blessing to pursue his path in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “They took me directly to the academy. They prevented me from going back home,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his nation to victory and earning best player.

A month later, he was unveiled as Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. He admits a need to temper his aggression, having been sent off early in his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

At Monaco, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Currently, attention is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, pointing to a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I feel really at ease here,” he insists. He is frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about targeting the senior 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 gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the game.