Hamza Abdelkarim’s camp dismisses ‘fabricated’ Como transfer reports

Hamza Abdelkarim’s father says the young Egyptian forward has no intention of leaving Barcelona in January, dismissing reports linking him with a move to Italian club Como as “fabricated”.

Speculation over Abdelkarim’s future has increased in recent weeks because of his limited involvement in matches and the intense competition for places in Barcelona’s first team. That had prompted suggestions he could leave temporarily to gain regular playing time and experience.

However, his father rejected those claims in comments to Erem News, which were reported by Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo.

“What is being said about Hamza leaving Barcelona is not true, and the rumours about his move to Como in Italy are fabricated,” he said.

The comments came in response to reports that Como were considering a deal for Abdelkarim, either on loan or on a permanent basis. Those reports suggested the Italian club could offer the forward the increased number of minutes he is seeking.

Abdelkarim’s situation has nevertheless attracted interest from several European clubs, who are reportedly monitoring his position ahead of the January transfer window. He made a strong impression during pre-season, showing a sharp eye for goal and a notable instinct in front of the net.

Despite those performances, the forward has yet to secure a regular place in German manager Hansi Flick’s plans for the first team. His lack of consistent playing time has fuelled speculation that a loan move could allow him to develop through more regular football.

Barcelona’s coaching staff regard Abdelkarim as a potential future striker for the club, but believe he needs time to adapt fully to the demands and style of the first team.

His father’s latest comments were intended to reassure both Egyptian supporters and Barcelona fans. He said the family’s position was clear and that the reports should be treated as speculation rather than evidence that a transfer had been agreed.

The family also retains full confidence in Barcelona’s project. Abdelkarim is expected to continue working hard and take advantage of every opportunity to demonstrate his ability, whether in training, during appearances for the first team or with the reserve side.

The forward is at an important stage of his career, balancing the ambition of remaining at one of the world’s biggest clubs with the need for regular football to continue his development. For now, however, his father’s message is unequivocal: there will be no January departure and the focus remains on Barcelona.

Abdelkarim’s longer-term prospects will depend on how effectively he uses the opportunities that come his way and whether he can convince Flick of his qualities. His challenge is to establish himself as more than a promising pre-season performer and become a striker Barcelona can rely on in the near future.