Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim has continued to attract attention in recent weeks, with his experience at Barcelona quickly developing from a promising opportunity into a genuine chance to establish himself within the first-team picture.

His recent progress has also earned recognition from FIFA, which highlighted the young striker among seven players who impressed at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup and have since attracted global attention.

World Cup Impact

Abdelkarim’s appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup represented an important milestone in his young career. Despite his age, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan gave him the opportunity to feature on the biggest stage in international football.

The striker appeared in four of Egypt’s five matches at the tournament, as the Pharaohs advanced to the Round of 16.

FIFA also pointed to his earlier international experience, noting that Abdelkarim had scored twice in four appearances at the U-17 World Cup before continuing his development with Barcelona’s youth setup.

His involvement with the senior national team therefore represented more than simply being part of the squad. He was given meaningful opportunities and managed to gain valuable experience at the highest level.

Flick’s Growing Trust

Abdelkarim has also made an impression during Barcelona’s preparations for the new season.

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The Egyptian striker joined the first-team training group and featured in Barcelona’s friendly matches during the preseason. His most notable moment came against Birmingham City, when he scored twice.

However, the strongest indication of his growing status may have come from head coach Hansi Flick.

As several young players were moved to train with Barcelona Atlètic, Abdelkarim remained with the first team alongside Álvaro Cortés. The decision was seen as another sign that Flick has developed significant confidence in the Egyptian forward’s abilities.

Flick has also praised Abdelkarim’s technical qualities, reinforcing the impression that the youngster is increasingly becoming part of the first-team conversation.

With FIFA now highlighting him among the young talents attracting international attention, Abdelkarim appears to be entering an important stage of his career.

The next challenge will be turning this promising start into a consistent role with Barcelona’s senior team — a step that could mark a major turning point in the career of one of Egypt’s most promising young forwards.