Hansi Flick praises Hamza Abdelkarim after Barcelona striker scores against Al Ahly

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised the progress of Hamza Abdelkarim after the young striker scored during the club’s 2-1 win over Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy at Camp Nou.

Abdelkarim made his first appearance at Camp Nou for Barcelona and continued an impressive pre-season campaign. He has scored four goals in five matches during the club’s preparations and is Barcelona’s leading scorer across the six fixtures they have played in that period.

Flick said the forward had followed the instructions given to him and carried them out effectively, while highlighting his ability to deal with crosses and retain possession.

“Hamza Abdelkarim is a good striker. We can see that when he deals with crosses. Today I saw him keeping the ball, and that is good. That is what I want to see from him,” Flick told TV3.

The victory over Al Ahly gave Barcelona further preparation ahead of the start of their competitive campaign. Flick said the build-up had been complicated by several players joining the squad only a week before the match, meaning the team had to manage playing time carefully.

“The preparation period was not easy because many players only joined the team a week ago. We dealt with these matches so that they could gradually get minutes,” he said.

Barcelona are also looking to strengthen their attacking options before the season begins. When asked about the possibility of signing a striker, Flick confirmed that work was continuing and expressed his full confidence in sporting director Deco.

“We are looking for this player. Deco has done a great job so far, and I trust him blindly,” he said.

Abdelkarim’s form has made him a notable contributor during Barcelona’s pre-season schedule, with his four goals coming in five appearances. His first match at Camp Nou also came as Barcelona completed their final preparations in front of their home supporters.

Barcelona are due to open their La Liga campaign against Elche next Sunday in the second round. Their opening-round fixture has been postponed and will be played against Athletic Club on Thursday, 27 August.

The match against Al Ahly therefore served as the latest opportunity for Flick to assess his squad before the competitive fixtures begin, while Abdelkarim’s performance added to the attention surrounding the striker after a productive period in front of goal.