Hamza Abdelkarim handed another start as Adeyemi debuts for Barcelona

Karim Adeyemi is set to make his first appearance for Barcelona when the Spanish champions face Birmingham City in a pre-season friendly at St Andrew’s Stadium on Friday.

The Germany international, who joined the Catalan club during the summer transfer window, has been named in Hansi Flick’s starting line-up alongside Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdel Karim for Barcelona’s second warm-up match ahead of the new season.

The match offers Adeyemi his first opportunity to impress in Blaugrana colours, while Hamza has been rewarded with a second consecutive start after catching the eye of the Barcelona coaching staff.

Adeyemi begins life at Barcelona

All eyes will be on Adeyemi as the winger makes his debut following his summer arrival at Camp Nou.

The decision to include the German international in the starting eleven underlines Flick’s confidence in the player and the role he is expected to play in Barcelona’s plans for the upcoming campaign.

With the new season fast approaching, the coaching staff hope the friendly encounter will help Adeyemi settle quickly into his new surroundings and build chemistry with his teammates.

Hamza strengthens his case

Egyptian forward Hamza Abdel Karim continues to earn the trust of Flick after retaining his place in the starting side for a second successive match.

The youngster is aiming to further strengthen his position within the squad as competition for places in Barcelona’s attack intensifies.

Another impressive display against Birmingham could boost Hamza’s chances of becoming a regular feature in Flick’s long-term plans.

Flick names youthful line-up

Barcelona’s starting team features Wojciech Szczesny in goal, with Xavi Espart, Andreas Christensen, Gerard Martin and Joffrey forming the defence.

Marc Casado and Marc Bernal start in midfield, while Adeyemi, 16-year-old Ebrima Tonkara, Shane Kluivert and Hamza Abdel Karim lead the attack.

The bench includes several experienced names, including Ronald Araujo, Raphinha, Cortes, Firmin and Pesquer, giving Flick plenty of options as Barcelona continue their preparations for the new season.