Spanish media reports have revealed the latest situation surrounding Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim, with the Barcelona striker reportedly in contention to feature against Elche in the opening round of the 2026-2027 La Liga season.
Barcelona will host Elche on Sunday in the opening match of their new league campaign, with attention focused on whether the young Egyptian forward will receive an opportunity with the first team.
Hamza Abdelkarim Enters Hansi Flick’s Plans
Strong Preseason Performance
Hamza Abdelkarim has reportedly impressed Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick during preseason after producing a series of strong performances.
The Egyptian striker scored four goals during the preparation matches, making him one of Barcelona’s leading scorers during the preseason campaign and strengthening his chances of being considered for first-team action.
No New Striker Could Boost His Chances
The youngster’s chances of being included against Elche have increased further because Barcelona have not completed the signing of another striker so far.
The coaching staff reportedly views Abdelkarim as a genuine option at center-forward rather than simply a young player being included to complete the first-team squad.
Barcelona Have High Hopes for Hamza Abdelkarim
Barcelona reportedly believe Hamza Abdelkarim has significant potential and can develop into an important attacking player in the coming years.
The club’s view of the Egyptian forward goes beyond his status as a promising youngster. His preseason performances have given the coaching staff reasons to consider him as an option capable of providing attacking solutions in the first team.
The 18-year-old will be hoping to take advantage of any opportunity he receives and establish himself within Barcelona’s first-team plans during the new season.
Barcelona Work on Hamza Abdelkarim’s Contract
Club Wants to Protect the Young Forward
As Abdelkarim’s profile continues to grow, Barcelona are reportedly working on his contract, with the club considering adjustments to some of its terms.
The contract situation is not currently considered an urgent priority, as Barcelona are also working to resolve several other matters before the summer transfer window closes.
Potential Increase in Release Clause
Spanish reports have previously indicated that Barcelona are considering increasing Hamza Abdelkarim’s release clause from €15 million to €150 million.
If completed, such a move would underline the club’s desire to protect one of its promising young talents and retain the Egyptian striker for the long term.
Will Hamza Abdelkarim Play Against Elche?
Hamza Abdelkarim’s participation against Elche will ultimately depend on Hansi Flick’s final decision regarding the matchday squad and starting lineup.
However, his four preseason goals, strong performances and Barcelona’s decision not to sign another striker so far could give the Egyptian youngster a genuine opportunity to enter the coach’s plans at the start of the season.
Could Hamza Abdelkarim play against Elche?
He is reportedly in contention to be included in Hansi Flick’s plans, although the final decision remains with the coaching staff.
How many goals did Hamza Abdelkarim score in preseason?
The Egyptian striker scored four goals during Barcelona’s preseason matches.
Is Barcelona working on a new contract for Hamza Abdelkarim?
Yes. Reports indicate that the club is considering adjustments to some terms of his contract.
What is Hamza Abdelkarim’s current release clause?
Reports indicate that his current release clause is €15 million, with Barcelona reportedly considering increasing it to €150 million.
