Survive or be loaned: The high stakes English Tour facing Barcelona’s new Egyptian striker

Hansi Flick called up Hamza Abdelkarim for Barcelona's England pre season tour this week after the striker excelled in training.

A well-deserved promotion

The inclusion of the young attacker in the 30 man traveling squad comes as a direct reward for his relentless work ethic.

Following his participation with the Egyptian national team at the World Cup 2026, Abdel Karim completely bypassed his scheduled summer vacation. He immediately reported to the Ciutat Esportiva to join the earliest phase of training under the new management.

His dedication quickly caught the eye of the coaching staff and he backed up his intensity by delivering a standout starting performance in the team's opening friendly against Europa.

Securing a permanent future

This rapid rise follows a decisive boardroom move by the Catalan club. Barcelona recently activated a €1.5 million purchase clause to sign the teenager permanently from Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

During his initial 6 month loan spell, the forward showcased lethal finishing, netting six goals in just 11 appearances for the youth setup which convinced the hierarchy to lock down his signature long term.

The developmental blueprint

According to the Spanish newspaper "SPORT" the technical staff has drafted a specific roadmap for the young forward. The current plan envisions him training regularly with the senior squad under Flick, serving as an emergency backup striker.

When first team minutes are scarce, he will drop down to feature for the reserve side to maintain match sharpness. However, "SPORT" also noted that his immediate future heavily depends on the club's remaining summer transfer activity.

A loan move to a Segunda División side remains a highly realistic option to ensure he gets consistent playing time if senior attacking reinforcements arrive.

Crucial auditions on English Soil

The upcoming tour serves as a massive tactical audition. Barcelona will face Birmingham City, Udinese and Nottingham Forest in a series of escalating challenges.

The squad will then return to Spain to conclude their preparations against Abdel Karim's former club, Al Ahly, in the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy.

These on pitch tests will definitively dictate whether he stays at Camp Nou or goes out on loan.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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