Egypt forward Hamza Abdel Karim could be set for a shock inclusion in the national squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after being named in Egypt’s provisional selection ahead of the tournament.
The teenager’s rise has been one of the standout stories of late 2025, following his emergence within the youth system of FC Barcelona, where he is widely regarded as a long-term attacking prospect.
Abdel Karim is reported to be the first Egyptian player to join Barcelona’s setup, marking a significant milestone in his early career.
According to reports, his move to Spain was initially slowed by administrative delays, but he officially began his competitive journey in March. Despite a short adaptation period, he impressed at youth level, ending his debut campaign with six goals.
Barcelona’s coaching structure has taken a cautious approach to his development, initially placing him in the Under-19 squad rather than fast-tracking him into the club’s reserve team, FC Barcelona Atlètic.
The club’s plan is understood to focus on gradual integration, allowing the striker to adapt to Barcelona’s tactical system and playing style rather than accelerating his progression too quickly.
Reports from within the club suggest that Barcelona view his early development as part of a long-term project, especially given the competitive nature of their reserve setup.
Despite his youth, Abdel Karim has already attracted attention for his attacking qualities, with particular praise for his finishing ability, movement inside the penalty area and natural instinct in front of goal.
On the international stage, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has reportedly included the forward in a provisional 27-man squad ahead of preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
The squad is expected to be reduced following a series of pre-tournament friendlies, meaning Abdel Karim still faces a battle to secure a place in the final tournament squad.
Even so, his inclusion at such an early stage of his career has been described as surprising in Barcelona circles, given his limited senior experience.
While Egypt appear open to fast-tracking his international involvement, Barcelona are believed to be maintaining a more cautious approach, prioritising his long-term development within their academy system.
Club officials are said to highly rate his potential, but prefer that he continues to develop within youth football before stepping into more demanding competitive environments.
Barcelona are also reportedly keen to secure his future, with a purchase option believed to be in the region of €2 million, as they look to integrate him into their long-term attacking structure.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, attention will now turn to whether the young forward can complete his rapid rise by breaking into Egypt’s final squad — a move that would mark a remarkable breakthrough at the earliest stage of his career.
