Egyptian striker Hamza Abdel Karim has taken a major step forward in his career after making his first appearance in Barcelona's first-team training as the Catalan giants began preparations for the 2026–27 season, highlighting the club's growing belief in the young forward's potential.

Hamza Begins His First-Team Journey

The 18-year-old joined Barcelona's senior squad just days after concluding his FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with the Egyptian national team, immediately reporting for preseason under head coach Hansi Flick, who included him in the training camp alongside several established first-team stars.

Barcelona had already completed Hamza's permanent transfer from Al Ahly, signing him to a contract that runs until the summer of 2029 after his impressive performances with the club's reserve side, reinforcing the club's long-term faith in his abilities.

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Before taking part in training, Hamza successfully passed the club's medical and fitness assessments, attracting attention with his physical condition and muscular build before stepping onto the training pitch for his first official session of the new season.

Flick Shows Faith in the Egyptian Talent

Hamza represented Egypt in four matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, contributing to the Pharaohs' historic run to the Round of 16 for the first time ever, a performance that strengthened his case for an opportunity with Barcelona's first team.

Barcelona will continue its preseason preparations through a series of friendly matches, including a highly anticipated clash against Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy, a fixture that could give Hamza the chance to face his former club.

The current preseason represents a golden opportunity for the Egyptian forward to convince Hansi Flick that he deserves a place in Barcelona's senior squad and begin a new chapter with one of the biggest clubs in world football.