Hamza Abdelkarim returns to Barcelona squad for Paris Saint-Germain clash

Hamza Abdelkarim has been included in the Barcelona squad for Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain, having been left out for the first time this season against Real Betis.

Barcelona travel to Paris for the third round of matches in the league phase of the Champions League, with manager Hansi Flick recalling the Egypt international to the travelling party.

Abdelkarim was omitted from the squad for Saturday’s real Betis match so he could feature for Barcelona’s reserve side. The former Al Ahly striker played against Utebo and scored in the 2-0 victory.

He had previously been named in every Barcelona squad since the start of the season, although he has played only 12 minutes. Flick therefore opted to give him reserve-team minutes to maintain his match sharpness.

Barcelona will be without Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde in Paris after both defenders suffered injuries during the match against Real Betis. Flick has added reserve-team defender Alex Campos to provide another defensive option among the substitutes.

The squad will hold its final training session at the Parc des Princes before facing Paris Saint-Germain.

Barcelona squad:

Goalkeepers: Joan Garcia, Dominik Livakovic, Wojciech Szczesny.

Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubarsi, Xavi Espart, Gerard Martin, Alex Campos.

Midfielders: Brian Farinas, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, Pedri, Rodri, Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Bernal.

Forwards: Hamza Abdelkarim, Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Gabriel Jesus, Raphinha.