National team manager faces criticism over Barcelona youngster’s limited role | OneFootball

Hamza Abdelkarim is once again at the centre of attention in Egypt. The young Barcelona striker, one of the country’s biggest football prospects, is seeing his role with the senior national team develop much more slowly than expected.

The situation is already beginning to draw criticism towards Hossam Hassan, the Egypt manager.

The controversy increased after the friendly against South Africa, which Egypt lost 0-1. Hamza once again started the match on the bench despite the expectations surrounding him and having recently scored his first goal for the senior national team against South Sudan.

The most notable incident, however, came after the match. Egyptian outlet Winwin published footage showing Hossam Hassan speaking very seriously to Hamza on the pitch.

The publication described the conversation as a reprimand from the manager towards the Barcelona player, although it has not emerged exactly what he was criticised for.

The two did not even shake hands after the exchange and went straight to the dressing rooms, with Hamza visibly angry.

Hamza was used as a substitute against South Africa. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Criticism of Hassan’s handling

The footage quickly fuelled debate in Egypt, particularly because the striker has been given very few opportunities since making the step up to the senior side.

There is currently no indication of a breakdown between the two or of a disciplinary issue, but Hassan’s reaction has added another element to a situation that is beginning to cause some unease around the young forward.

Criticism of the manager has also come from respected figures in Egyptian football. Bashir El Tabei, the former Egypt international and Zamalek player, questioned the way the match against South Africa was handled and called for Hamza to be given a greater role.

The former defender felt that, given it was a friendly, the Barcelona player should have started and been given more minutes to show what he can do.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JULY 07: Hossam Hassan, Head Coach of Egypt, reacts after the 2-3 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium on July 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

“The team has no personality or charisma, except Muhannad Lashin, and it would have been better to include Hamza Abdulkarim in the starting line-up and give him a greater opportunity, especially considering that it is a friendly match,” he said.

Hamza’s growing profile in Egypt

The debate is particularly relevant given Hamza’s current situation at Barcelona. His progress over recent months has raised expectations in Egypt, where he is regarded as one of the most promising talents of his generation.

His recent first senior international goal appeared to open the door to a more important role, but Hossam Hassan continues to manage his minutes very cautiously.

Hamza therefore returns to the spotlight in his home country for two reasons: calls for him to have a greater role and the tense exchange with the manager after the defeat to South Africa.

Source: SPORT