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As I walk into the room, the young midfielder picks up a football he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the most difficult person to convince didn't come from a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me to play football simply 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 pursue his career in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which deterred local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured 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 straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning home,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Year and European Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to the title and being named player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” states the youngster. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his relatives support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from dead-ball situations are key strengths. Camara confesses he must to temper his aggression, having been sent off at the start of his spells at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

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

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – there's no denying it. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. If you beat England at Wembley… it instills confidence.”

Looking ahead, this talented midfielder combines humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to lead Senegal to continental glory and build his own lasting legacy in the world of football.