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As I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” remarks this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. Yet, the hardest person to convince didn't come from a club executive or manager, it was from his dad. “He was against me to play football but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to chase his path in the sport. A further barrier was his small stature, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

Nevertheless, the famed academy – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. Following he earned the best player in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to learn he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “They took me directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Breakthrough

This move set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “a year to remember,” which began with him lifting the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, though tired, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, leading his country to the title and earning player of the tournament.

A month later, he signed for FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” states the 21-year-old. He has lived alone in Europe, a situation his relatives encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a problem for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. Camara confesses he must to control his competitive fire, having been sent off at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Future Goals

With his current club, he cherishes learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “When I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I thought we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

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

Regarding a future move to the Premier League, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about winning the main Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“We are the favourites – that's the reality. Having beaten England in their own country… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends a modest start, steely determination, and grand ambitions targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the game.