Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – As The Gambia struggles in the qualifiers for a third participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the national team could greatly benefit from bolstering its midfield with the inclusion of Mahdi Camara. The 26-year-old midfielder, currently a key player for his French Ligue 1 side Stade Brestois, continues to show exceptional form, making a compelling case for the Gambia Football Federation (GFF) to intensify efforts to bring him into the Scorpions’ fold.

In a midfield often lacking depth, Camara has been a standout performer this early season, helping his team recover from difficult starts. Despite his team’s setbacks against Marseille (1-5) and Lens (2-0), Camara was instrumental in securing their first victory of the season with a 4-0 win over Saint-Étienne. His goal against his former club set the tone for his continued rise, just before an important clash with Paris Saint-Germain and his upcoming Champions League debut.

Camara’s rise to prominence has been swift. After playing a major role in his club’s historic third-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, where he featured in 32 matches, mostly as a starter, he has earned a reputation as a versatile and dynamic midfielder. Under the guidance of coach Eric Roy, who took charge in January 2023, Camara has thrived in a free role within a 4-3-3 formation. His presence in both defensive recoveries and attacking transitions has made him a key cog in his team’s strategy.

Roy has spoken highly of Camara’s dedication and professionalism. “He arrived sharp as a blade after the holidays,” Roy said, highlighting Camara’s commitment to maintaining top physical form. This level of professionalism is something the Scorpions could greatly benefit from, especially as they navigate a challenging qualification campaign for the 2025 AFCON, with only one point after two matches.

Despite his exceptional performances, Camara has so far resisted calls to represent The Gambia at the international level. Born in Martigues, France, to a Gambian father, Camara previously played for France’s youth teams but has not featured in international football since 2017. In 2021, then-coach of The Gambia, Tom Saintfiet, sought to include him in the squad for AFCON 2021, but Camara opted to remain with Saint-Étienne to help in their relegation battle. Unfortunately, the club still dropped out of Ligue 1.

Saintfiet, who is now coaching Mali, has long been an admirer of Camara’s abilities. “Mahdi is a fantastic player and would be a great reinforcement for our team. I traveled 700 kilometers to meet him, and we had a very good conversation,” Saintfiet revealed, reflecting on his attempts to convince the midfielder. Even at the end of 2023, as The Gambia advanced towards their second AFCON, Saintfiet remained hopeful but noted that Camara had yet to be convinced.

Camara’s development has continued at a remarkable pace. His offensive capabilities, stemming from his early years as an attacking-minded player, are now shining through. Last season, he scored seven goals, including a memorable hat-trick against Strasbourg. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him an ideal candidate for the Scorpions, who are in dire need of a player with his qualities as they seek to qualify for AFCON 2025.

The GFF should not relent in its pursuit of Mahdi Camara. His contributions could be pivotal for a Gambia squad that continues to make strides on the continental stage but needs reinforcements to reach its full potential. Camara’s continued success in Ligue 1 and his growing stature as a player who can deliver at the highest level show that he could be a game-changer for The Gambia.

With time running out before the next round of AFCON qualifiers, now is the moment for the GFF to intensify its lobbying efforts and bring Mahdi Camara home to represent the country of his father’s heritage.