Hansi Flick praises Hamza Abdelkarim after Barcelona forward scores twice against Birmingham

Hansi Flick praised the attitude and potential of Hamza Abdelkarim after the Egyptian striker scored both of Barcelona’s goals in their friendly against Birmingham.

The 19-year-old found the net twice as Barcelona drew 2-2 with Birmingham after 90 minutes before losing 3-2 on penalties. The performance marked Abdelkarim’s first goals for Barcelona’s senior team since he was promoted to the first-team group during pre-season.

Flick said Abdelkarim had shown the qualities expected of a young forward and highlighted the effort he puts in during training and matches.

“Hamza Abdelkarim? From what I have seen, he is a good person and has a good mentality. He always gives his maximum every day, and that is really great. As I said before, he has huge potential,” said the Barcelona manager at a news conference.

Flick also explained why Abdelkarim’s positioning had been important in the match, particularly when opportunities appeared inside the penalty area.

“A striker has to be in the right place, so if an opportunity comes inside the box, you have to be there. That is what he did in this match, and I think it will give him a lot of confidence in the coming weeks,” he added.

Abdelkarim scored both of Barcelona’s goals, while Birmingham’s two goals came from August Priske and John Solis. The result was decided by a shootout after the two sides could not be separated during normal time, with Birmingham eventually prevailing 3-2 on penalties.

The match was Barcelona’s second friendly of the preparation period. They began their pre-season programme with a convincing 4-1 victory over Europa FC in a behind-closed-doors fixture.

Abdelkarim was added to Flick’s pre-season options after returning from duty with the Egypt national team at the World Cup. His inclusion in the squad has now been followed by a notable contribution against Birmingham, where his two finishes provided the main talking point despite Barcelona’s defeat in the shootout.

Flick’s comments underline the growing faith in the young forward, who has been working with the senior side during the preparation period. The manager’s assessment focused not only on Abdelkarim’s finishing but also on his mentality, daily commitment and ability to occupy the correct position when chances develop in the penalty area.

For Abdelkarim, the goals represent an early landmark with Barcelona’s first team. They also give him the confidence Flick believes will be important over the weeks ahead, as the club continues its preparations following the opening two friendly matches.