English Premier League
Hamza Abdelkerim scores first Barcelona senior goal in closed‐door friendly
\n\n
Teenage forward Hamza Abdelkerim marked his first goal for Barcelona’s senior side in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Europa on Friday, as Hansi Flick continued preparations for the 2026-27 season.
The 18-year-old Egyptian was handed a starting place in the front line by new head coach Flick and took full advantage, striking Barcelona’s second goal of the match after around half an hour of play.
The game, held without spectators, formed part of the Catalan club’s pre-season schedule as they build towards the new campaign under the German manager.
Permanent move from Al Ahly
Abdelkerim’s goal comes shortly after Barcelona confirmed they had activated the option to make his transfer from Al Ahly permanent.
The forward initially joined the Spanish club on loan from the Egyptian giants in January and impressed with a series of standout performances for Barcelona’s youth teams.
His form at that level persuaded the club to trigger the buy-out clause in his deal, securing him on a full contract and paving the way for his promotion into first-team pre-season training under Flick.
Friday’s friendly appearance, and his first senior goal in a Barcelona shirt, underline the faith the club have placed in the youngster following his rapid progress over the last few months.
In form after World Cup outings
Abdelkerim’s breakthrough in Barcelona colours arrives during a period of momentum for the player at international level.
The striker has recently featured for Egypt at the World Cup, making four appearances for the Pharaohs at the tournament.
That exposure on the global stage has coincided with his rise at club level, culminating in his first goal for Barcelona’s first team during the closed‐door encounter with Europa.
Set to face former club Al Ahly
Abdelkerim is now set for an early reunion with his former club after Barcelona confirmed they will face Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy.
The traditional curtain-raiser to Barcelona’s season will be played on 19 August at Camp Nou, giving the young forward the chance to line up against the team where he began his professional career.
For both club and player, Friday’s goal in a low-key training match represents an early milestone in what they hope will be a long-term partnership, with more competitive tests – including the glamour friendly against Al Ahly – to come before the 2026-27 campaign gets under way.
