Hamza Abdelkarim impresses Barcelona coaches

Barcelona’s coaching staff have reportedly been impressed by Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim since the 18-year-old joined his first training session with the senior squad.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the forward immediately attracted attention during finishing exercises.

Abdelkarim stood out with powerful headers, curling attempts into the far corner and sharp finishes at the near post. His natural instinct inside the penalty area has encouraged Barcelona’s staff to examine whether he could become a useful option for the first team.

Coach Pol Planas and his team are working on one particular aspect of the youngster’s game: his tendency to drop too deeply into midfield. The aim is to keep Abdelkarim closer to goal, where his movement and finishing can cause the greatest danger.

To help him improve his positioning, Barcelona are studying clips of Erling Haaland, Viktor Gyokeres and Samuel Eto’o. Those examples are intended to show him how elite strikers occupy high-value scoring areas and remain ready for chances.

With Hansi Flick looking for a natural number nine, Abdelkarim could offer an internal solution if Barcelona fail to complete an external signing before the transfer deadline. His progress will now be closely followed during training.