Barcelona include Egyptian teenager Hamza Abdelkarim in squad for Rayo Vallecano game

Barcelona have named Egyptian teenager Hamza Abdelkarim in their squad for Monday’s La Liga meeting with Rayo Vallecano, with head coach Hansi Flick continuing to keep faith with the highly rated youngster.

The forward has retained his place in the senior squad after training regularly with the first team during pre-season, where he featured among the academy players given opportunities by Flick ahead of the new campaign.

Although Hamza is yet to make his competitive debut for Barcelona’s first team, Flick recently identified the Egyptian striker and fellow youngster Jesse Besio as players the club views as long-term investments.

Barcelona head into the third-round fixture looking to maintain their perfect start to the defence of their La Liga title after victories over Elche and Athletic Bilbao in their opening two matches.

Rayo Vallecano, meanwhile, travel to the Olympic Stadium seeking their first win of the season after collecting just one point from their opening two league games.

Barcelona squad for Rayo Vallecano

Goalkeepers: Juan Garcia, Wojciech Szczesny, Eder Alier.

Defenders: Gerard Martin, Jules Koundé, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, Pau Cubarsí, Alejandro Balde, João Cancelo, Xavi Espart.

Midfielders: Pedri, Fermín López, Dani Olmo, Rodri, Marc Bernal, Bryan Fariñas.

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