Barcelona Registers Egyptian Forward Hamza Abdelkarim in First-Team Squad After Strong Pre-Season

Barcelona Promotes Egyptian Forward Hamza Abdelkarim to First Team

Barcelona has officially added 18-year-old Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim to their first-team squad for the 2026-27 La Liga season under manager Hansi Flick. Abdelkarim impressed during pre-season by netting four goals, earning the No. 29 shirt just six months after moving from Cairo's Al Ahly.

Pre-Season Impact and Squad Inclusion

The young attacker demonstrated his talent in summer friendlies, convincing Flick to include him in the senior roster. He was named on the bench for Barcelona’s dominant 5-0 opening match victory over Elche.

Abdelkarim Shows Gratitude

After his promotion was confirmed, Abdelkarim expressed his thanks on social media, writing on his official X account:

Praise be to God, I have officially been registered in the first-team squad for the current Spanish League season. Thank you, Coach Hansi Flick, for your trust.

Quick Progress Highlights Potential

The forward's fast rise comes shortly after his January transfer from Al Ahly. He already has valuable experience, having participated in Egypt’s run to the last 16 at the 2026 World Cup, where they were eliminated by Argentina. Under Flick, Abdelkarim will work on pressing, link-up play, and adapting physically within the senior team environment.

Future Role at Barcelona

Barcelona aims to keep building on a strong league start while slowly integrating promising young players like Abdelkarim into the squad rotation. With significant depth in attack, the coaching staff can manage his development carefully, allowing him time to prove himself in training before making his competitive debut.

• Player: Hamza Abdelkarim
• Age: 18
• Position: Forward
• Previous Club: Al Ahly (Cairo)
• New Squad Number: 29
• Manager: Hansi Flick
• Pre-Season Goals: 4
• La Liga Season: 2026-27
• Notable International Experience: Egypt, 2026 World Cup last 16
• First Team Debut Status: Bench for opening 5-0 win vs Elche