Barcelona include Egyptian talent Hamza Abdelkarim in squad for Athletic Bilbao clash

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has included Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim in his squad for the La Liga clash against Athletic Bilbao.

The Catalan giants will host Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou in a rescheduled fixture from the opening round of the Spanish league season.

Barcelona head into the match in confident mood after an impressive 5-0 victory over Elche last Sunday. Flick’s side will be hoping to maintain their winning start and collect another three points against Athletic Bilbao.

One of the players attracting attention is 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim, who has once again been included in the first-team squad.

The Egyptian forward was also named among the substitutes for the victory over Elche but did not get an opportunity to make his competitive debut.

Abdelkarim will now hope Flick gives him minutes against Athletic Bilbao, even if it is only a brief appearance from the bench. The youngster impressed during Barcelona’s pre-season campaign and is eager to score his first official goal for the Catalan club.

Another notable inclusion is Rodri, who is set to make his Barcelona debut following his move from Manchester City.

Alejandro Balde has also returned to the squad after being left out against Elche. His inclusion comes amid continued speculation over the defender’s future at Barcelona.

Barcelona will therefore enter the game with several talking points, but their immediate focus will be on maintaining their winning momentum and strengthening their position in the league.

Barcelona squad vs Athletic Bilbao:

Goalkeepers: Juan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, Eder Alier.

Defenders: Eric Garcia, Alejandro Balde, Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Andreas Christensen, Xavi Espart.

Midfielders: Rodri, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo, Marc Bernal, Fermin Lopez.

Forwards: Hamza Abdelkarim, Karim Adeyemi, Rafinha, Anthony Gordon, Lamine Yamal