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As I enter the space, the young midfielder picks up a football he clings to until after our chat. It’s a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; my mind was set on nothing else,” remarks the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and raw talent convinced clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest person to convince was not a club executive or manager, but his own father. “He didn’t want me playing soccer but it’s because he had never watched me,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “a special day,” he received his father’s blessing to chase his career in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the club that nurtured talents including Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following Camara was named the best player in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from returning to Casamance,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Year and Continental Breakthrough

This move put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he competed in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his nation to victory and being named best player.

Soon after, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a problem,” says the youngster. He has lived by himself in Europe, a choice his relatives support to keep him focused.

Inspiration and Playing Style

Distractions are not really a concern for Camara, who draws inspiration from Kevin De Bruyne’s “modesty” and superb skills. He is also 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 key strengths. Camara confesses a need to temper his competitive fire, after being sent off early in his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he values learning from 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.

Right now, attention is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. After defeating England in their own country…,” he says, pointing to a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a transfer to the English top flight, he remains focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. He is often teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his two Africa Young Player of the Year 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 belief.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and grand ambitions as he aims to guide Senegal to continental glory and forge his own legendary path in the game.