From CS Sfaxien of Tunisia to Al-Waab SC of Qatar, Guinean international Naby Camara’s talent is now shining brightly at Simba SC, which he joined during this season’s main transfer window.
Capable of playing in nearly nine different positions — left back, right back, center back (positions four and five), defensive midfielder (six), central midfielder (eight), winger (seven and eleven), and attacking midfielder (ten) — the left-footed player is considered one of Simba’s most valuable signings this season.
Camara is among 13 new players recruited by Simba this season, alongside Yakoub Suleiman (goalkeeper), Vedastus Masinde (center back), Wilson Nangu (center back), Anthony Mligo (left back), Rushine De Reuck (center back), Alassane Kanté (midfielder), Morice Abraham (midfielder), Mohammed Bajaber (attacking midfielder), Hussein Semfuko (midfielder), Jonathan Sowah (striker), Seleman Mwalimu (striker), and Neo Maema (attacking midfielder).
At just 23 years old, Camara stands out as the only player who can start a match as a left back, shift to a defensive midfielder during the same game, and finish as an attacking midfielder — excelling in all positions.
This versatility was evident during the Simba Day friendly against Kenya’s Gor Mahia on September 10, 2025, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. Camara began as a number eight midfielder, later moved to left back after Anthony Mligo was substituted, and even covered at right back at times during the match. Simba won 2-0, and Camara played the full 90 minutes alongside Rushine De Reuck — the only two new signings to do so that day.
In the Community Shield match on September 16, 2025, where Yanga defeated Simba 1-0, Camara started at left back and completed the full 90 minutes once again.
He continued to impress in the CAF Champions League preliminary round against Gaborone United in Botswana, where Simba won 1-0. Camara played as a defensive midfielder in the absence of Yusuph Kagoma, who was suspended from last season’s CAF Confederation Cup final.
Back home, in the 3-0 league win against Fountain Gate, Camara featured as a left back for the entire match. Although he was benched for the next two games, he returned in top form in the 3-0 away win over Nsingizini Hotspurs of Eswatini, playing both as a defensive and attacking midfielder.
He did not feature in the return leg but completed 90 minutes in the 2-1 win over JKT Tanzania on November 8, 2025, starting as an attacking midfielder before slotting into a three-man defense later in the game.
Camara’s composure, confidence, and ability to execute long, accurate passes make him one of Simba’s most reliable players. His calmness under pressure and technical precision allow him to dictate play from multiple areas on the pitch.
When Simba’s coach shifts to a three-defender formation, Camara often forms part of that setup alongside Rushine De Reuck and Wilson Nangu, sometimes with Chamou Karaboue. This flexibility gives Simba more tactical options, especially when chasing a result.
During the current FIFA international break, Camara has been called up to the Guinea national team — his first time since joining Simba.
So far, Camara has played five of Simba’s eight competitive matches, starting and completing all of them for a total of 450 minutes. While he has yet to score or assist, his influence has been undeniable.
At Simba, competition is fierce across all positions. The right-back spot features Shomari Kapombe and David Kameta ‘Duchu,’ the left side is covered by Anthony Mligo, and the central defense includes Rushine De Reuck, Wilson Nangu, Vedastus Masinde, Abdulrazack Hamza, and Chamou Karaboue. In midfield, Yusuph Kagoma and Mzamiru Yassin occupy the defensive role, while Alassane Kanté, Morice Abraham, Mohammed Bajaber, and Semfuko Charles provide attacking options.
Speaking about his versatility, Camara said the freedom he’s been given has allowed him to thrive across multiple roles.
“I’ve been given the freedom to play in any position, and every role assigned to me, I handle with confidence,” said Camara.
He added that his adaptability has increased his value to every team he has played for.
“Some days you need to build attacks, and other days you protect the midfield. Being able to do both makes me feel important to the team,” he added.
Camara concluded by saying that the challenges of switching positions have helped him learn and grow as a player.
“Each position has its own demands and challenges, but also opportunities to learn,” he concluded.
