Barcelona have decided to keep Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim with the first team this season despite interest from clubs seeking to take him on loan during the January transfer window, according to Spanish newspaper Sport.
The 5-0 win over South Sudan in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers has further increased attention on the young forward, who has been praised by the Spanish media following his contribution to Egypt’s victory.
Sport reported that Abdelkarim has become a major talking point in Egyptian football, with growing expectations that he can become one of the country’s leading players in the future.
The newspaper said the striker is currently receiving more opportunities with Egypt than he has at Barcelona, but described this as consistent with a gradual development plan agreed between the player and the Catalan club.
Barcelona’s intention is to increase Abdelkarim’s involvement during the season, with the possibility of the Egyptian eventually starting matches for the first team.
According to Sport, Barcelona and coach Hansi Flick have agreed that the player should remain with the senior squad rather than leave on loan. The club believes that training and playing alongside the first team will help him gain the experience required for his development.
Abdelkarim joined Barcelona’s youth setup on loan in January 2026 and progressed more quickly than expected. His performances attracted the attention of the coaching staff, particularly his attacking qualities.
Barcelona’s coaches believe the Egyptian has the natural attributes required to operate as a centre-forward. His physical strength, movement in attack and ability to finish are among the qualities that have impressed the club.
The management and coaching staff also believe those characteristics could eventually allow Abdelkarim to become Barcelona’s main striker and wear the number nine shirt.
Sport reported that his agreement with Barcelona included participation in the club’s pre-season preparations for the new campaign. His involvement with Egypt’s World Cup squad then accelerated the club’s efforts to secure his long-term future after other clubs began showing interest.
Barcelona subsequently moved to make his stay permanent and offered him an improved professional contract with the first team. The value of his release clause was also increased to more than €100m, while further changes to his contract are expected in the coming period.
Abdelkarim’s performances during pre-season also played a part in Barcelona’s decision. He scored several goals and impressed Flick and his coaching staff, strengthening the club’s decision to retain him.
Although his competitive involvement has so far been limited, Barcelona expects his playing time to increase progressively as the campaign continues.
Sport said Abdelkarim will become part of the club’s rotation after the international break. His appearances so far have been restricted to a few minutes against Rayo Vallecano.
The Egyptian understands that he faces strong competition for places at Barcelona and regards the current period as an opportunity to learn and gain experience. His family also support the approach being taken over his development.
The report said Abdelkarim is aware of the competition for the striker position, with Raphinha regarded as a first-choice option and Jesus also ahead of him in the current order. However, Barcelona’s busy fixture schedule could create further opportunities.
Flick’s confidence in the young striker is expected to help increase his involvement gradually.
Barcelona have decided against loaning Abdelkarim out in January despite receiving several offers, while the club also expects him to remain with the team next season.
Flick and the sporting management want the Egyptian to continue working closely with the first team because of their belief in his potential and his long-term value to the club.
Sport reported that Barcelona’s plan is to give Abdelkarim between 10 and 15 appearances during the current season as part of his gradual integration into the first team.
At the same time, the striker’s growing role with Egypt is adding another stage to his development as Barcelona continues with its long-term plan for the young forward.
