Barcelona list Hamza Abdelkarim in both senior and reserve squads

Egypt striker Hamza Abdelkarim has been registered by Barcelona with two different shirt numbers, appearing as number 29 in the first-team squad and number 19 for Barcelona Atletic.

The unusual arrangement was revealed in the squad lists published by Barcelona. Abdelkarim’s inclusion in both groups indicates that he is currently linked to the senior side as well as the club’s reserve team, giving him two separate squad registrations and shirt numbers.

The 19-year-old joined Barcelona on loan during the most recent winter transfer window. Following the performances he produced after arriving, the Catalan club decided to move to sign him permanently.

Abdelkarim has attracted considerable attention in recent weeks. His progress led to a surprise selection for Egypt’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, before he chose to continue working rather than take a period of rest.

The striker reported early for Barcelona’s pre-season preparations under manager Hansi Flick. That decision appeared to pay off, as he impressed during the preparation period and finished as Barcelona’s leading scorer.

His form helped him remain in Flick’s plans and earned him the opportunity to make his first appearance in La Liga. Abdelkarim was given that chance in Barcelona’s match against Rayo Vallecano in the previous round.

There had been speculation that he could return to the reserve team after Barcelona completed the signing of Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus. However, Flick opted to retain the Egyptian forward and included him in the squad for Sunday’s match against Valencia.

That decision means Abdelkarim remains part of the first-team picture, despite also being listed with Barcelona Atletic. His presence in both squad lists, and the use of numbers 29 and 19, has created an unusual situation for the Egyptian forward as he continues to establish himself at the club.

Barcelona’s decision reflects Abdelkarim’s rapid rise since his arrival. He has moved from a loan signing to a permanent addition and has now been involved in senior-team preparations, while still remaining connected to the reserve side.

His progress has also been marked by his increased involvement at international level. After being called into Egypt’s 2026 World Cup squad unexpectedly, he chose to maintain his training programme and join Barcelona’s preparations ahead of schedule.

The forward’s performances during that period strengthened his position with Flick and helped him break into the first-team squad. For now, Abdelkarim’s status is unusual but clear: he is available within Barcelona’s senior setup while also carrying a separate registration with Barcelona Atletic.