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When I walk into the space, the young midfielder grabs a football he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a simple visual metaphor for a dream he has always held onto. “I only wanted the beautiful game; my mind was set on nothing else,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent convinced clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the most difficult approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He was against me to play football but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his career in the sport. Another challenge was his modest frame, which discouraged local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

Nevertheless, Génération Foot – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. After Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, the scouts were “astonished” to learn he was not tied down. They moved fast. “They took me straight to the training centre. They didn’t want me from going back home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Season and European Breakthrough

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the CHAN trophy. Just weeks later, though tired, he competed in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his nation to the title and earning best player.

Soon after, he was unveiled as Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the 21-year-old. He resides alone in Europe, a situation his family support to maintain his concentration.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and superb playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His ball striking and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. He admits a need to control his aggression, after being sent off early in his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he jokes.

Life at Monaco, Mentors and Upcoming Goals

At Monaco, he cherishes the guidance of teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Currently, attention is squarely on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – there's no denying it. After defeating England in their own country…,” he states, pointing to a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, but is serious about targeting the senior Africa Player of the Year down the line.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. If you beat England in their own country… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder combines a modest start, steely determination, and grand ambitions as he aims to lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the world of football.