Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdel Karim set for Barcelona Athletic debut

Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdel Karim is edging closer to making his long-awaited debut for FC Barcelona Atlètic after completing the final administrative procedures that had delayed his participation with the Spanish side.

The promising striker recently sealed a loan move from Al Ahly SC to Barcelona’s reserve team until June 30, 2026. The agreement between the two clubs also includes an option for the Catalan giants to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

Abdel Karim’s move is considered a landmark moment, as he has become the first Egyptian player to wear the famous colors of FC Barcelona. His rise to prominence came after an impressive showing with Egypt national under-17 football team at the Under-17 World Cup, where his performances caught the attention of several European clubs, including FC Bayern Munich.

The young forward has now secured the required work permit and arrived in Barcelona in recent hours to officially begin his journey with the club.

Abdel Karim had briefly returned to Egypt to finalize the paperwork related to the work permit, a crucial step that was required before he could participate in official matches in Spain.

The striker is expected to link up with his new teammates in training in the coming hours and could soon be available for selection. He may feature either for Barcelona Atlètic under head coach Juliano Belletti or with the club’s Under-19 side managed by Paul Planes.

With the paperwork now sorted, anticipation is building for Abdel Karim’s first appearance in Barcelona colors as the young Egyptian looks to begin the next chapter of his promising career in Spain.