🔗 Share this article

As I enter the space, the young midfielder picks up a football he won’t let go of throughout the conversation. This serves as a simple symbol for a ambition he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His resolve and natural ability convinced teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest person to convince was not a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” he received his dad's approval to chase his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the club that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After he earned the MVP in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to learn he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “They took me straight to the academy. They didn’t want me from going back home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and European Breakthrough

That decision put him on a pathway to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to victory and earning player of the tournament.

Soon after, he signed for Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

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 international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from set pieces are notable assets. He admits he must to control his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his tenures at both Metz and Monaco. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

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 firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England in their own country…,” he says, pointing to a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very comfortable here,” he insists. He is frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about winning the senior Africa Player of the Year in the future.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it instills belief.”

Looking ahead, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to lead Senegal to continental glory and build his own legendary path in the game.