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As I walk into the room, the young midfielder picks up a soccer ball he clings to until after the conversation. It’s a powerful symbol for a ambition he has never let slip. “I only wanted football; I was focused solely on that,” states the AS Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over teams such as Metz, Monaco, and Génération Foot. However, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a club executive or coach, but his own father. “He didn’t want me playing soccer simply because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Overcoming Early Hurdles

In time, on “a special day,” he received his dad's approval to pursue his career in the game. Another challenge was his modest frame, which deterred his hometown team Casa Sports from offering him a contract.

However, Génération Foot – the club that nurtured stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – saw his potential instantly. After Camara was named the best player in a local competition, Génération Foot were “astonished” to discover he was without a contract. They acted quickly. “They took me directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from going back to Casamance,” he recalled.

An Unforgettable Season and European Breakthrough

That decision put him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with Camara winning the African Nations Championship. Shortly after, despite fatigue, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, leading his country to victory and being named best player.

A month later, he was unveiled as FC Metz, emulating Mané. “Settling in wasn't a problem,” says the youngster. He resides by himself in Europe, a choice his family support to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Off-field noise aren't a problem for Camara, who looks up to Kevin De Bruyne’s “humility” and exceptional playing qualities. Additionally, he's a big admirer of players like Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, and his Senegal colleague Idrissa Gana Gueye.

His powerful shot and accuracy from set pieces are notable assets. He admits a need to control his aggression, after being sent off at the start of his spells at both Metz and Monaco. “It's a trait that is following me!” he quips.

Life at Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he values the guidance of veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard Monaco were interested in Pogba, I told myself we are really lucky,” Camara noted.

Currently, attention is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the favourites – there's no denying it. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, referencing a memorable 3-1 win in Nottingham.

Regarding a future move to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he affirms. However, he's frequently teased by icon El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Best Young Player awards. He laughs, but is serious about winning the main top prize down the line.

“The pressure is on us – that's the reality. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you confidence.”

Moving forward, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams targeting to guide Senegal to Afcon success and build his own lasting legacy in the game.