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As I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a football he clings to until after our chat. 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 the AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability convinced teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the hardest approval to secure was not a sporting director or coach, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me to play football but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

Eventually, on “a special day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his path in the game. Another challenge was his small stature, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the institution that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After he earned the best player in a local competition, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “I was taken directly to the training centre. They prevented me from returning home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and Continental Arrival

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” starting with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his country to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, 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 choice his family encourage to maintain his concentration.

Influences and On-Field Identity

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a huge fan of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from set pieces are key strengths. Camara confesses he must to control his competitive fire, having been shown red early in his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Right now, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. After defeating England on their soil…,” he states, pointing to a memorable 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the Premier League, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I feel really comfortable here,” he insists. However, he's frequently teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. He laughs, yet remains determined about targeting the main top prize down the line.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it instills belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions targeting to guide Senegal to continental glory and build his own legendary path in the game.