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When I enter the room, the young midfielder picks up a soccer ball he clings to throughout our chat. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for a dream he has never let slip. “I only wanted the beautiful game; I was focused solely on that,” states the Monaco and Senegal playmaker.

His resolve and natural ability won over clubs like Génération Foot, Metz and Monaco. Yet, the hardest approval to secure didn't come from a sporting director or manager, it was from his dad. “He didn’t want me playing soccer but it’s because he hadn’t seen me play,” explains Camara.

Surmounting Initial Obstacles

Eventually, on “one beautiful day,” Camara earned his dad's approval to pursue his career in the game. A further barrier was his modest frame, which deterred local club Casa Sports from giving him a contract.

However, the famed academy – the institution that produced stars like Sadio Mané, Papiss Cissé and Ismaïla Sarr – were convinced immediately. Following he earned the MVP in a regional tournament, Génération Foot were “shocked” to discover he was not tied down. They acted quickly. “I was taken directly to the academy. They didn’t want me from going back home,” he recalled.

A Landmark Year and European Arrival

That decision set him on a trajectory to Europe. A defining period was 2023, “a year to remember,” starting with him lifting the African Nations Championship. Just weeks later, despite fatigue, he played in the U-20 Africa Cup, guiding his country to the title and being named player of the tournament.

Soon after, he was unveiled as FC Metz, following in the footsteps of Mané. “Adapting was never a challenge,” says the 21-year-old. He resides by himself in Europe, a situation his family encourage to keep him focused.

Influences and Playing Style

Distractions aren't a concern for Camara, who looks up to the Belgian maestro's “modesty” and exceptional playing qualities. He is also a huge fan 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 control his aggression, having been shown red at the start of his spells at each French club. “It's a trait I carry with me!” he quips.

Monaco, Teammates and Future Goals

With his current club, he cherishes learning from veterans such as Denis Zakaria and especially Paul Pogba. “As soon as I heard about the interest in Pogba, I thought we are fortunate,” Camara noted.

Right now, attention is firmly on the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. “We are the team to beat – we can’t hide from that. If you beat England on their soil…,” he states, pointing to a historic 3-1 win in Nottingham.

On a potential transfer to the English top flight, he is focused on Monaco for now. “I am very at ease here,” he insists. However, he's frequently ribbed by Senegalese legend El-Hadji Diouf about Camara's two Africa Young Player of the Year awards. Camara jokes, yet remains determined about targeting the senior top prize down the line.

“We are the favourites – we can’t hide from that. Having beaten England at Wembley… it gives you belief.”

Looking ahead, this talented midfielder blends humble beginnings, unwavering focus, and big dreams as he aims to guide Senegal to Afcon success and forge his own legendary path in the world of football.