News Focus
- Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim, aged 18, named in Egypt’s 2026 World Cup squad
- FC Barcelona will activate the buy option to sign him permanently from Al Ahly
- The forward has impressed for Barcelona’s Under-19 team since his January arrival
- He has not yet featured for Hansi Flick’s senior side at the Catalan club
Teenage forward Hamza Abdelkarim has received a major boost to his young career. The Egyptian striker will travel to North America this summer for the 2026 World Cup.
The 18-year-old joined FC Barcelona on loan from Al Ahly during the January transfer window. The agreement included an option for a permanent move. Club officials have now confirmed they will sign him on a full-time basis.
Since arriving in Spain, Abdelkarim has played regularly for the club’s Under-19 side. He has not yet trained with the senior squad under manager Hansi Flick. However, his performances at youth level have impressed Egypt’s national team coaches.
Egypt included the striker in their final World Cup squad this week. The tournament will take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Abdelkarim is likely to serve as a substitute, but any appearance would mark a remarkable achievement for the teenager.
Barcelona view the forward as a future prospect for the first team. His experiences at the World Cup could help him progress to Flick’s senior plans next season.