Italy starlet Camarda looks up to hero Ibrahimovic & dreams of Azzurri call-up | OneFootball

Francesco Camarda is still only 17, but already speaks with the maturity of a player who knows exactly where he wants his career to go.

On loan at Lecce from Milan, the highly rated forward opened up about his journey and ambitions in an interview with Vivo Azzurro TV, via TuttoMercatoWeb, describing a rise fuelled by sacrifice, talent and a clear sense of purpose.

Camarda reflected on his earliest steps in the game with a mixture of pride and disbelief. “I started at four years old with a small team near my neighbourhood. When I think back now, I say to myself: ‘Wow, I’ve made it this far and who knows, maybe I can go even higher.’ It gives me motivation and pride. I owe everything to my parents: on my debut my mum started crying, as if she had been on the pitch with me.”

CREMONA, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Francesco Camarda of Italy celebrates after scoring the 3-0 goal during the UEFA Euro U21 Qualification match between Italy and Armenia at Stadio Giovanni Zini on October 14, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

His progression through Italy’s youth teams has been equally swift.

“I began with the Under-15s and my first call-up was against Slovenia. It was a symbol of pride and a huge emotion, especially because I scored. With the Under-17s I played a lot and built a great relationship with the coach. The Euros were incredible, everything seemed to click. Then the Under-19 Euros came in the same year. And now with the Under-21s, we’re a strong group: almost like a family.”

Camarda inspired by teammates & Serie A legend Ibrahimovic

Despite being known for his goals, he stressed that his numbers come from collective work. “It’s thanks to the team first of all, then the coach, and yes, also me. In Serie A you have to adapt to the rhythm of grown men: it’s another world.”

Camarda also spoke about his idol, Zlatan Ibrahimović. “I watch the Ibra film at least once a year… he’s one of the best ever and played my same role.”

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – OCTOBER 22: Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks on with team mate Sandro Tonali during the warm up ahead of the UEFA Europa League Group H stage match between Celtic and AC Milan at Celtic Park on October 22, 2020 in Glasgow, Scotland. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

As for the senior Italy team, the dream is firm and uncomplicated. “It’s my dream. If the call-up comes, I’ll be as motivated as possible to show I deserve the place.”

Camarda’s ambition is clear and the Azzurri will surely be watching closely.