Hamza Abdelkarim set for Barcelona first‑team push

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has opened the door for 18‑year‑old U19 striker Hamza Abdelkarim to break into the first team next season.

The Egyptian forward has already caught the eye with five goals in his debut campaign for Barca’s U19 side after moving on loan from Al‑Ahly in February and then earning a surprise call‑up to Egypt’s World Cup squad.

Flick said: “We have to wait. We’re planning the preseason and I’m keeping an eye on it, eager to see new faces. When I started in 2024 it was incredible to see the quality at La Masia, and that’s still happening this season. When I return, it could be an option.”

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are now working towards exercising Abdelkarim’s €3 million buy‑option, with his World Cup‑squad inclusion pushing the club to act fast.

The teenage prodigy, who stood out at the U17 World Cup, is seen as one of the most promising talents in La Masia and has the potential to make a quick step up to Barca’s senior setup.