Barcelona talent Hamza Abdelkarim in contention to replace Raphinha against Getafe

Barcelona youngster Hamza Abdelkarim has emerged as a potential option for coach Hansi Flick as the Catalan giants prepare for their La Liga clash against Getafe.

The young striker has entered Flick’s plans amid uncertainty over the availability of Raphinha, who is recovering from a right thigh muscle injury.

Raphinha was forced to withdraw from the Brazil squad after initial medical examinations, with the Brazilian Football Confederation confirming that he was released as a precaution. He has since returned to Barcelona to continue his treatment and recovery.

Barcelona are hopeful that the injury is not serious and that Raphinha can recover in time for the October 10 meeting with Getafe. However, if the Brazilian is not ready or Flick decides not to risk him, Abdelkarim could be handed an opportunity to step into the attacking setup.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Abdelkarim is among the alternatives being considered by the German coach. The youngster has made only four minutes of first-team football so far, but his inclusion in Flick’s plans highlights the growing opportunities available to him.

Abdelkarim’s potential involvement would represent a significant step in his development at Barcelona, particularly with the club facing uncertainty over one of its most important attacking players.

Raphinha has enjoyed an influential start to the season, scoring 14 goals and providing three assists in eight official matches. His possible absence therefore leaves Flick with an important decision to make in attack.

While Gabriel Jesus is another option available to the Barcelona coach, having scored twice in limited minutes since joining from Arsenal, Abdelkarim could provide a younger alternative in the forward line.

Flick can also consider Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez in more advanced roles, while Lamine Yamal remains a possible option if the coach decides to move him centrally.

For Abdelkarim, however, Raphinha’s injury could create an important opening. The young striker now has the opportunity to convince Flick that he can contribute to the first team if called upon against Getafe.