Hamza Abdelkarim steps up as Barcelona’s striker search reaches a crossroads

Barcelona’s search for a new centre-forward has been complicated by difficulties in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, but Egyptian teenager Hamza Abdelkarim has given manager Hansi Flick another attacking option after scoring twice in a friendly against Birmingham.

The 18-year-old used his 60 minutes on the pitch to make a strong impression, showing the qualities of a traditional number nine and strengthening his case for a place in Barcelona’s first-team plans.

According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the future of Barcelona’s striker recruitment remains uncertain. Negotiations for Alvarez, who plays for Atletico Madrid, have become increasingly difficult, while it is also unclear which alternative could convince both Flick and sporting director Deco.

Abdelkarim, however, has taken advantage of his opportunity and presented himself as a possible internal solution. His display against Birmingham came at a significant moment for the club, with Barcelona still looking for a player capable of leading their attack.

The Egyptian forward gave up part of his summer holiday after representing Egypt at the 2026 World Cup and returned early to Barcelona training under Flick. His decision reflected a desire to demonstrate his ability and compete for a place in the starting line-up.

His two goals were only part of an energetic all-round performance. Abdelkarim contested physical battles with Birmingham’s defenders, moved persistently to create space and contributed to Barcelona’s pressing, highlighting his suitability for the central striker role.

He opened his account after winning a penalty himself before converting from the spot. His second goal showed the instincts of a natural finisher, as he reacted quickly to a rebound from the goalkeeper inside the penalty area.

Mundo Deportivo described Abdelkarim as a “raw gem” when discussing Barcelona’s decision to make his move permanent. The club had initially taken him on loan from Al Ahly during the previous season so he could play for their youth side.

Barcelona later activated the option to sign him permanently after club officials became convinced they had secured a player with significant potential. That belief was formed even before his standout performances for Egypt at the World Cup.

His latest showing against Birmingham has now added further weight to the idea that he could contribute at senior level. Rather than relying solely on his finishing, Abdelkarim displayed the movement, physical presence and defensive work required of a modern centre-forward.

The report concluded that the teenager had made a strong claim to lead Barcelona’s attack while the club continues to encounter obstacles in their attempt to sign Alvarez. Those difficulties could encourage Flick to use Abdelkarim as one of his attacking solutions during the new season.

For now, Barcelona’s plans for a new striker remain unresolved. But Abdelkarim’s two-goal performance has ensured that his name is firmly part of the conversation.