Barcelona’s Abdelkarim says he is ‘living a dream’ after scoring against Ahly

Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim says he is determined to keep chasing his dream at Barcelona after scoring against his former club Ahly in the Catalan side’s 2-1 Joan Gamper Trophy victory at Camp Nou.

The teenager, who joined Barcelona from the Egyptian champions, netted his fourth goal in five pre-season appearances, ending the club’s six-match warm-up schedule as its leading scorer. The match also marked his first appearance at Camp Nou.

“It was a special match, but it is too early to talk about achieving anything,” Abdelkarim told journalist Achraf Ben Ayad after the game.

Facing the club where he came through the ranks made for an emotional evening, the forward admitted.

“I went through many feelings during this match because I played against the team where I grew up. Hopefully, I made Egyptians happy,” he said.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick praised the striker’s development, pointing to his movement in the penalty area and his ability to hold up the ball.

“Hamza Abdelkarim is a good striker. We can see that when he gets on the end of crosses. Today I saw him holding on to the ball, which is good. That’s what I want to see from him,” Flick said.

Abdelkarim credited the German coach with giving him the confidence to continue improving.

“Hansi Flick gives me a lot of confidence. Hopefully, I can continue working and maintain the coach’s trust in me,” he said.

The young forward also highlighted the support he has received from Barcelona’s senior players, saying they have helped both first-team and academy players settle into the club’s environment.

“I am living a dream and I believe in it. Hopefully, I will continue it,” he added.

Abdelkarim revealed that Egypt captain Mohamed Salah has remained in regular contact with him since the national team’s training camp, describing the Liverpool forward as an important mentor.

“Mohamed Salah has been in regular contact with me since the Egypt national team camp. I benefit greatly from everything he tells me because he has achieved so much. He is a role model for me and for all of Egypt,” he said.

The striker also thanked Ahly supporters and Egyptian fans for their encouragement, urging other young players from his country to pursue their ambitions.

“My message to Egyptian players is: believe in your dream,” he said.

Barcelona secured the win through goals from Abdelkarim and Raphinha, while Ahmed Sayed Zizo scored Ahly’s only goal.

Despite the Egyptian’s impressive pre-season form, Flick confirmed after the match that Barcelona are still seeking another attacking signing before the transfer window closes.

“We are looking for this player. Deco has done a great job so far, and I trust him blindly,” the coach said, referring to sporting director Deco’s efforts to strengthen the squad.

Barcelona begin their La Liga campaign against Elche on Sunday before playing their rescheduled opening fixture against Athletic Bilbao on 27 August.