Hansi Flick says Hamza Abdulkareem has the qualities required of a number nine after the 18-year-old Egypt international scored both of Barcelona’s goals in a 2-2 draw with Birmingham City, before the Spanish side lost the match on penalties.
The Barcelona head coach praised Abdulkareem’s character and attitude after the striker impressed against the English club, describing him as humble and highlighting his desire to improve.
“Hamza is very humble and has a great personality. He always tries to give his best and has great potential,” Flick said at his post-match news conference.
The teenager’s performance could strengthen his position in the competition for Barcelona’s central striker role, with the club still seeking to sign another forward during the current summer transfer window.
Flick: ‘This is what I demand from a number nine’
Flick was particularly pleased with Abdulkareem’s movement and finishing inside the penalty area, saying the forward had delivered exactly what he expects from a player in that position.
“As a striker, you have to be present in those situations inside the box, and he was there today. This is what I demand from a number nine,” said the German coach.
Asked whether Barcelona might add another striker to the squad, Flick avoided discussing players who are not currently part of his team.
“We are focusing only on what we have, on the players who are currently here, and nothing else. I do not dream,” he said.
Flick also stressed that Barcelona’s progress this season would depend on the standards they set in their daily work rather than on potential transfers.
“We have a big objective for this season, but everything depends on how we work every day. The most important thing is the players’ effort, their mentality and the team’s dynamics. In the end, the team is the most important thing,” he added.
Flick pleased with young players
Barcelona struggled during parts of the match, particularly in the first half, when they gave away possession and made several mistakes. However, Flick said he was satisfied with the overall performance and with the contribution of the club’s younger players.
“We lacked possession of the ball and made some mistakes, but I am happy. The overall feeling is good, and the entire coaching staff is satisfied with the performance of the young players,” he said.
He was especially encouraged by the way Barcelona’s reserve and youth players responded against opponents he regarded as being at a higher level.
“The most important thing is that they showed their quality, and I really appreciate that. It is a pleasure to work with them and watch their reactions in matches like this, with this fighting spirit,” Flick said.
Adeyemi makes Barcelona debut
Flick also discussed new summer signing Karim Adeyemi, who made his first appearance for Barcelona during the match.
“He has great potential to show. There are aspects he still needs to improve, but he has not trained with us for a long time. He has a lot of quality. It is good to see him on the pitch, and I am sure he will add a lot,” said Flick.
The manager also reflected on Marcus Rashford’s departure after his loan spell from Manchester United and the arrival of Anthony Gordon. Flick said Barcelona would miss Rashford, while acknowledging that loan agreements do not always develop into permanent transfers.
“His situation was not easy, and sometimes loan deals do not become permanent transfers. We will miss him, but we have to accept it. Gordon has arrived, he is very excited to play for Barcelona and he is performing very well,” he said.
Flick added that Ferran Torres remained an important player for his plans for next season. The Spain winger is currently on holiday after the manager spoke to him during the World Cup.
“I spoke to him during the World Cup, but he is now on holiday; he is an important player for us,” Flick said.
