GOAL reported on Wednesday that Barcelona officials and coach Hansi Flick are impressed by 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim's professionalism and attitude. After signing a new contract until 2030, the forward made clear that his priority is minutes, whether they come with the first team or Barcelona Atletic.
Return to training
Abdelkarim reported for Barcelona training on Wednesday as the squad got back to work after two painful defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid. He had watched both games against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid from the bench without kicking a ball.
What Sport said
According to Catalan newspaper Sport, Barcelona's officials have taken a shine to Hamza Abdelkarim. The newspaper said: "It is not easy for a player of this age to handle such a situation, especially as the Egyptian striker gained wide fame in his country after taking part in the World Cup. Nevertheless, Hamza has shown a great deal of humility and awareness, whether in accepting his limited appearances with the first team, or in his readiness to play for Barcelona Atletic under Juliano Belletti when asked to do so"
According to Catalan newspaper Sport, Hansi Flick is a fan of both how Hamza carries himself in the dressing room and what he produces in training. For now, according to Catalan newspaper Sport, Flick trusts more established options up front.
Only Barcelona Atletic appearance
Abdelkarim's last outing came on 17 October, his only appearance so far for Barcelona Atletic. He opened the scoring from the penalty spot against Utebo in a 2-1 win at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
Saturday fixtures
Barcelona host Deportivo Alaves on Saturday at 9pm Spanish time. Barcelona Atletic face Arnedo on Saturday at 6pm at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.