Barcelona’s Hamza Abdelkarim begins preseason early after World Cup exit

Eighteen‑year‑old Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim, who became Egypt’s youngest World Cup debutant at the 2026 tournament, was signed permanently by FC Barcelona in June for a fee of €1.5 million after a loan spell from Al‑Ahly. Following Egypt’s elimination by Argentina in the round of 16, Abdelkarim forwent the rest of his vacation and reported to Barcelona’s Joan Gamper Sports City to start training under new head coach Hansi Flick.

The Egyptian player received a state honor from President Abdel‑Fattah al‑Sisi on his return to Cairo, where he was praised for competing “with values” and earning public respect. Abdelkarim’s early involvement in Barcelona’s preseason signals his intent to compete for a place in the first‑team squad.