Egyptian teen Hamza Abdelkarim pushing for Barcelona first-team spot after prolific pre-season

Eighteen-year-old Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim is making a strong impression during Barcelona's pre-season, emerging as the team's leading scorer and pushing for a place in manager Hansi Flick's squad. Abdelkarim has netted four goals in five warm-up appearances, starting four matches and scoring in three.

Abdelkarim joined Barcelona permanently in June, signing a contract until 2029 after exercising their purchase option. He initially arrived from Egyptian club Al Ahly during the winter transfer window and scored six goals in 11 appearances for Barcelona's under-19 team. Despite limited senior experience at Al Ahly, where most of his few senior appearances were in domestic cup competitions, Abdelkarim has adapted well to leading Barcelona's attack.

With Barcelona yet to sign a dedicated striker following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, Abdelkarim's pre-season form could offer him an earlier-than-expected opportunity with the first team. He has displayed the instincts of a poacher, aerial strength, and the ability to link up effectively with wingers.

Abdelkarim showcased his talent with a brace in a pre-season draw in Birmingham and scored against his former club Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy. His performances follow a notable showing at the 2025 Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, where he scored twice and provided an assist for Egypt. Despite his relative lack of senior club experience, he was included in Egypt's senior squad for the current year's World Cup, earning praise for his physicality and tenacity against experienced defenders.

Egyptian fans are hopeful that Abdelkarim can emulate the success of Mohamed Salah, whom he considers an idol. "Salah always speaks to me," Abdelkarim told ONSport. "I have to make the most of his advice. We all know that what Salah has achieved is no coincidence. He is an idol to all Egyptians." Abdelkarim is in contention to lead Barcelona's attack in their LaLiga opener against Elche.

“

Salah always speaks to me. I have to make the most of his advice. We all know that what Salah has achieved is no coincidence. He is an idol to all Egyptians.