Belgium and dual nationals, it’s been a very bad story for a few weeks. The Red Devils are seeing talent gradually slip away, and here again, another African choose his country of origin.
There was already Bilal El Khannouss, considered ancient history. Then Belgium remembered again the pugilism that is a fight for dual nationals. After Konstantinos Karetsas, who chose to represent Greece, and Chemsdine Talbi, who opted for Morocco, a new player trained in the kingdom has just announced his departure for another selection. This time, it is Senegal that records a success in the race for dual nationals.
Ilay Camara says yes to the Lions
Ilay Camara, right-back for Standard de Liège, has decided: he will wear the colors of Senegal at the international level, reveals the Belgian media Walfoot. A decision that would have been taken largely because of his attachment to the Lions and the legacy left by his father, Sadio Camara, a former footballer from Ziguinchor. Ilay Camara, who played with the U15 and U16 teams of Belgium before joining the Espoirs, would have already been approached by Pape Thiaw to join the next lists.
A close friend of the player spoke to Wiwsport about this decision which was carefully considered. Anonymously, he explains:
“It is not opportunism. He has always felt something for Senegal. Through his father, he knows that playing for the national team was a dream for him.”
“The whole family supports him, even the Belgian side”
Unlike other cases where families push players to choose one nation over another, Ilay Camara has benefited from the unconditional support of his family. “The whole family supports him, even the Belgian side. They have always encouraged him to follow his heart, and that is now done,” adds the same source.
The player is said to have followed Senegal’s performances in recent years with great interest. The same source continues:
“One of his biggest goals was to wear the Senegal jersey. He has always followed the news of the national team. He has seen all the work put in place in recent years, learned about the 2002 epic and talked with players currently in the national team”
A hard blow for Belgium
Trained in Belgium and played for the Red Devils’ youth teams, the 22-year-old defender hesitated for a long time before following his heart and his family heritage.
By joining Senegal, Ilay Camara joins an ambitious team that is aiming for big goals, starting with the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. An adventure that the Liège native is now ready to experience.
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