🔗 Share this article

As I enter the room, the young midfielder picks up a soccer ball he won’t let go of until after the conversation. It’s a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “My sole focus was football; I was focused solely on that,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His determination and raw talent won over 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 didn’t want me to play football simply because he had never watched me,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his father’s blessing to chase his path in the sport. A further barrier was his modest frame, which deterred local club Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

Nevertheless, the famed academy – the institution that produced talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

An Unforgettable Year and European Breakthrough

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, emulating Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his relatives support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “humility” and exceptional skills. Additionally, he's a huge fan of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and precision from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to control his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Ambitions

At Monaco, he values the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Right now, his focus is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, pointing to a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, but is serious about targeting the main Africa Player of the Year in the future.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England in their own country… it gives you belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, steely determination, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the game.