Barcelona forward Hamza Abdelkarim named in Egypt’s 2026 World Cup squad

Eighteen‑year‑old Hamza Abdelkarim, on loan at FC Barcelona from Egyptian club Al Ahly, has been included in Egypt’s 26‑man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The striker, who made a five‑minute senior debut for the Pharaohs in a friendly win over Russia, joins veterans Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush as Egypt prepares to face Belgium, New Zealand and Iran in Group G, opening the tournament in Seattle.

Barcelona hold a €1.5 million purchase option with add‑ons on Abdelkarim and plan to activate it this summer. In his first four months in Spain he scored eight goals in 11 matches for the Juvenil A side. First‑team manager Hansi Flick is considering inviting the youngster to pre‑season training after the World Cup, signalling a possible fast‑track to senior club football.

The move highlights both Abdelkarim’s rapid rise and Barcelona’s investment in a promising young striker, while Egypt’s selection reflects the national team’s gamble on emerging talent for the upcoming tournament.