Hamza Abdelkarim’s limited involvement with Egypt has come under renewed scrutiny after the Barcelona striker was left on the bench during the Pharaohs’ 1-0 friendly defeat by South Africa.
Spanish newspaper Sport reported that Egypt manager Hossam Hassan held a serious conversation with Abdelkarim after the match. Both men appeared visibly frustrated during the exchange before heading straight to the dressing room without shaking hands.
The incident has intensified questions over Hassan’s handling of the young forward, who has so far been given limited opportunities at international level. Abdelkarim scored his first international goal against South Sudan recently, raising expectations that he would play a more prominent role for Egypt.
However, he was not included in the starting line-up against South Africa, a decision that has prompted criticism from supporters and sections of the media. The match itself ended in a narrow defeat for Egypt, while the post-match conversation between the player and manager added to the attention surrounding Abdelkarim’s position within the squad.
Former Zamalek and Egypt defender Bashir El-Tabei also questioned the technical staff’s approach to the friendly and called for Abdelkarim to be given more playing time.
“Since it was a friendly match, it would have been better to start Hamza Abdelkarim and give him a greater opportunity, especially because he is a player with abilities worth watching,” El-Tabei said.
He also criticised Egypt’s performance during the game, arguing that the match provided an opportunity to assess the young striker more fully.
The debate comes as hopes continue to grow around Abdelkarim’s international future. The forward has begun to push towards Barcelona’s first team, increasing expectations over what he might contribute to Egypt.
There is no confirmed indication of a dispute or disciplinary issue between Abdelkarim and Hassan. Nevertheless, the scene following the defeat by South Africa has placed the Barcelona striker back at the centre of discussion and renewed questions over whether he is receiving an opportunity that matches the expectations surrounding him.
