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As I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a football he clings to until after our chat. This serves as a simple symbol for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and raw talent won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from 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,” says Camara.

Surmounting Early Hurdles

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

However, Génération Foot – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the best player in a local competition, Génération Foot were “shocked” to learn he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “They took me straight to the academy. They prevented me from returning home,” Camara said.

A Landmark Year and Continental Arrival

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. His breakthrough came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the CHAN trophy. Shortly after, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to the title and being named best player.

A month later, he signed for FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He has lived by himself in Europe, a choice his family encourage to maintain his concentration.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “humility” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and precision from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses he must to control his competitive fire, after being sent off 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 Ambitions

At Monaco, he values learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” he said.

Right now, his focus is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a historic 3-1 victory in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco at present. “I feel really at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's often teased by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about his two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about winning the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England at Wembley… it instills belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, steely determination, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own lasting legacy in the world of football.