Barcelona teenager in contention for first-team pre-season as club ready to trigger €3m buy option
· Yahoo Sports
Barcelona appear increasingly convinced they have uncovered another exciting young talent after the rapid rise of teenage striker Hamza Abdulkarim.
The Egyptian forward only arrived during the winter transfer window, but his development over the last few months has surprised even those inside the club.
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What initially looked like a low-risk academy investment has now turned into one of Barcelona’s most promising youth projects.
According to Cadena SER, the Catalan side is now practically certain to activate the €3 million purchase option included in Abdulkarim’s current loan agreement from Al Ahly.
Barcelona are convinced
As per the outlet, the club believes the deal already represents excellent value given how quickly the player’s reputation has grown since arriving in Spain.
Barcelona are ready to trigger €3m buy option for Hamza Abdulkarim (Photo courtesy: FC Barcelona official website)
Abdulkarim’s impact in the Barcelona youth system has been immediate.
Coaches and staff are said to be highly impressed not only by his performances on the pitch but also by his professionalism, personality, and ability to adapt quickly to a completely new environment.
That strong first impression has not gone unnoticed outside the club either.
In fact, several European teams have started enquiring about the striker’s situation after his recent displays and his growing reputation at youth level.
The interest has only intensified following his unexpected inclusion in the Egypt national football team squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
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At just 18 years old, Abdulkarim was not initially expected to make the final squad given that he is still developing within Barcelona’s academy structure. However, Egypt manager Hossam Hassan decided to reward the youngster’s rapid progress with a surprise call-up.
Barcelona keeping an eye
As a result, Barcelona are aware that Abdulkarim’s market value has already risen sharply in a very short period of time.
Internally, there is growing belief that the operation could become extremely profitable in the future if his development continues at the current pace.
Furthermore, reports suggest Hansi Flick has also been monitoring the teenager’s progress closely, and there is strong expectation that he will be included in Barcelona’s pre-season tour this summer.
And that could become a huge moment in the player’s development.