Barcelona’s new Egyptian project: Who is Hamza Abdelkarim? | OneFootball

Forward becomes the first Egyptian player ever to join Barça

Barcelona’s new Egyptian project: Who is Hamza Abdelkarim?

Barcelona completed the loan signing of Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim from Al Ahly until June 2026 with a purchase option included.

First Egyptian player in Barcelona history

FC Barcelona officially announced on Sunday 1 February, that they have reached agreement with Al Ahly to sign young forward Hamza Abdelkarim on loan during the winter transfer window.

In statement published on the club’s official account on X, Barcelona confirmed that the 18 year old will join Barcelona B until 30 June 2026 with option for the Catalan club to make the move permanent.

The transfer is historic as Abdelkarim becomes first Egyptian player ever to join Barcelona in the club’s history.

Loan deal includes option to buy

Reports indicate that Barcelona secured the player on six month loan deal with buy option set for summer 2026.

The permanent transfer fee is expected to be around €3 million while performance-related bonuses could increase the overall package to €5 million.

The agreement also includes additional clauses linked to participation and future value.

Abdelkarim will begin his European journey with the reserve team giving him time to adapt to Barcelona’s style and gain experience in Spanish football.

A Rising talent from Al Ahly and Egypt youth teams

Hamza Abdelkarim is viewed as one of the most promising attacking talents produced by Al Ahly in recent years.

He has impressed at international youth level with Egypt’s U-team setup,making 19 appearances and contributing directly to 18 goal scoring 12 time and providing six assist.

Barcelona see him as part of their long-term project to build younger attacking core for the future.

Hamza: “A great honor”

The Egyptian striker expressed his excitement after completing the move calling it dream opportunity.

“It is honor for me to wear the shirt of club with such great history” Abdelkarim said. “I will try to make the Barcelona fans happy and take on this responsibility”

He also posted video of his arrival in Spain as he prepared for his medical examinations before the official announcement.

Smart step for both clubs

The deal represents strategic move for both Barcelona & Al Ahly. Barcelona gain talented young striker with low risk through loan structure while Al Ahly strengthen their reputation as one of Africa’s leading talent producers.