From representing Egypt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to starring in Barcelona’s pre-season, 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim’s rise has been impossible to miss.
The Egyptian youngster made his World Cup appearance before returning to Barcelona and making a strong case for more first-team minutes, scoring four goals in pre-season friendlies and catching the attention of manager Hansi Flick.
Flick Praises Hamza’s Breakout Pre-Season
“Hamza is having a really great pre-season,” Flick said ahead of Barcelona’s LaLiga opener against Elche.
“He’s a number nine, he’s young, and he has a lot of potential, and also he scored goals. This is the important thing when you’re playing in this position, and he did a great job.”
Now, with Barcelona’s 2026/27 LaLiga campaign finally set to begin, Abdelkarim could be on the verge of another major step in his rapid rise.
A First-Team Chance Could Come Sooner Than Expected
Barcelona will travel to face Elche on Sunday for their opening league game, with Abdelkarim reportedly in contention to lead the attack.
The teenager’s chances have improved with Barcelona’s lack of an out-and-out striker after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. While the club could still strengthen up front, Abdelkarim’s impressive pre-season has put him firmly in the conversation for first-team opportunities.
Flick has yet to reveal who will start at Elche, but his praise for Abdelkarim suggests the youngster has done everything he can to put himself in contention.
Barcelona Could Raise His Release Clause
Abdelkarim’s rise has also reportedly prompted Barcelona to protect their investment in the young forward.
According to Catalan newspaper Sport, the club is planning to increase his release clause from €15 million to €150 million, a huge jump that reflects how highly Barcelona now rate his potential.
For a player who only recently began making headlines with the first team, it would be another major indication of the club’s plans for him.
What Comes Next?
For Abdelkarim, the immediate goal is simple: turn his impressive pre-season into regular first-team opportunities.
Whether he starts against Elche or comes off the bench, Sunday could mark another important moment in his already remarkable rise. After a World Cup appearance, four pre-season goals and growing backing from Flick, the Egyptian teenager now has a chance to show that he can make the jump from promising youngster to genuine Barcelona first-team player.
And if his pre-season is anything to go by, Abdelkarim may not have to wait long for his next big moment.
We Said This: Don’t Miss… Hamza Abdelkarim Is Already Making His Mark at Barcelona With Four Pre-Season Goals
