Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim appears set to continue with Barcelona’s first team despite the club officially announcing the signing of Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal.
One of the clearest indications came after Abdelkarim was left out of Barcelona’s reserve team squad for the Catalonia Cup final scheduled for Wednesday.
Hamza Abdelkarim Absent From Barcelona B Squad
The Egyptian striker’s absence from the reserve squad comes only days after he made his first La Liga appearance for Barcelona.
Abdelkarim came on during the final five minutes of Barcelona’s match against Rayo Vallecano in the third round of La Liga, marking an important step in his development with the senior team.
His continued involvement with the first team reflects the confidence shown in him by manager Hansi Flick, particularly after his performances during preseason.
Abdelkarim’s Role With Barcelona’s First Team
Since the beginning of preseason, the Egyptian forward has not trained with Barcelona’s reserve team after being called up to the first team by Hansi Flick.
He featured in all of Barcelona’s preseason matches before being included in the squad for the club’s opening three La Liga fixtures.
The opportunity represents an important chance for the young striker to establish himself at senior level and compete for minutes during the season.
Will Hamza Abdelkarim Play Against Valencia?
Barcelona are preparing to face Valencia in the fourth round of La Liga, with attention focused on whether Abdelkarim will remain part of Flick’s plans.
The match between Barcelona and Valencia is scheduled for Sunday at 5:15 PM, potentially giving the Egyptian youngster another opportunity to feature for the first team.
Abdelkarim will be hoping to continue earning Flick’s trust after making his competitive debut in La Liga.
Gabriel Jesus’ Barcelona Transfer
Barcelona officially announced the signing of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal on a contract running until the summer of 2029.
According to media reports, the transfer is worth €10 million, with a further €5 million available in add-ons and performance-related bonuses.
The Brazilian striker has arrived to strengthen Barcelona’s attacking options following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.
Strong Competition for Hamza Abdelkarim
Despite Gabriel Jesus’ arrival, the Brazilian’s signing does not necessarily mean that Abdelkarim has been removed from Barcelona’s first-team plans.
The Egyptian forward earned Hansi Flick’s confidence during preseason and appeared in Barcelona’s preparation matches before making his La Liga debut.
With Abdelkarim remaining around the first team, competition for attacking positions is expected to increase, giving the young striker another opportunity to prove his ability.
Hamza Abdelkarim’s Future at Barcelona
Abdelkarim’s future with Barcelona’s first team will depend on Flick’s decisions in the coming matches. However, his absence from the reserve squad after making his La Liga debut is an important indication that he could continue training and competing with the senior side.
Attention will now turn to Barcelona’s clash with Valencia to see whether the Egyptian forward receives another opportunity to play.
Will Hamza Abdelkarim remain with Barcelona’s first team?
Current indications suggest that he will remain with the first team, particularly after being left out of the reserve squad.
Has Hamza Abdelkarim played in La Liga?
Yes. He made his La Liga debut against Rayo Vallecano in the third round.
When will Barcelona face Valencia?
Barcelona will face Valencia on Sunday at 5:15 PM in the fourth round of La Liga.
How much did Gabriel Jesus cost Barcelona?
The transfer is reportedly worth €10 million, plus up to €5 million in add-ons.
Will Gabriel Jesus compete with Hamza Abdelkarim?
Jesus’ arrival increases competition in attack, but Abdelkarim remains in contention after earning Hansi Flick’s confidence.
