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As I walk into the room, the young midfielder picks up a football he won’t let go of until after our chat. This serves as a simple symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states this AS Monaco and Senegal midfielder.

His determination and natural ability won over teams such as Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or coach, it was from his dad. “He was against me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” says Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his father’s blessing to pursue his career in the sport. A further barrier was his modest frame, which discouraged his hometown team Casa Sports from giving him a deal.

However, the famed academy – the club that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After he earned 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 prevented me from going back to Casamance,” Camara said.

A Landmark Season and Continental Arrival

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period came in 2023, “an unforgettable year,” which began with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, though tired, he played in the Under-20s Afcon, guiding his country to the title and earning best player.

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

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional skills. He is also a big admirer of midfielders such as Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his international teammate Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are key strengths. Camara confesses he must to temper his aggression, after being shown red at the start of his tenures at each French club. “It is a habit I carry with me!” he jokes.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

At Monaco, he values learning from teammates like Denis Zakaria and particularly Paul Pogba. “When I heard about the interest in Pogba, I told myself we are fortunate,” he said.

Currently, his focus is firmly on the Afcon tournament with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England in their own country…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential future move to the Premier League, he is committed to Monaco at present. “I am very at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's frequently ribbed by icon El-Hadji Diouf about his 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. If you beat 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 lead Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the game.