🔗 Share this article

When I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a soccer ball he won’t let go of throughout our chat. This serves as a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has always held onto. “I only wanted 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 hardest person to convince was not a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” he received his father’s blessing to pursue his career in the game. A further barrier was his small stature, which deterred local club Casa Sports from offering him a deal.

Nevertheless, the famed academy – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After Camara was named the MVP in a local competition, the scouts were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They moved fast. “I was taken straight to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and European Arrival

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his nation to victory and being named player of the tournament.

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 by himself in Europe, a choice his family support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

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

His powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses a need to temper his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Upcoming Goals

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

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

Regarding a transfer to the Premier League, he is committed to Monaco for now. “I feel really comfortable here,” he affirms. He is frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the main top prize 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 a modest start, steely determination, and big dreams targeting to lead Senegal to continental glory and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.