Hamza Abdelkarim: The Egyptian Haaland Ready to Shine at Barça

In Egypt, excitement is building ahead of tonight's competition against the Belgian Red Devils. The story is particularly sweet for Hamza Abdelkarim, one of the greatest promises of the Pharaohs.

Similar to 2018, the last time Egypt participated in the World Cup, the biggest names in the Pharaohs' squad are upfront. Mohamed Salah is still there, Omar Marmoush has also made a name for himself with his 75 million euro transfer from Manchester City. The name Mahmoud Trezeguet is also familiar to Belgian football fans since his time at Anderlecht (and his loan to Mouscron).

However, in recent weeks, one name has been making waves in the country: Hamza Abdelkarim. It's worth noting that the player is currently at FC Barcelona, albeit with the U19 team. But this summer could be the one where he reveals himself to the world of football.

At just 18 years and 161 days old, Abdelkarim has always impressed with his precocity. Recruited by Barcelona in February, the Cairo native had already made a name for himself in Al Ahly's first team, becoming the youngest player to feature for the Egyptian club's flagship team since the start of the century.

Abdelkarim's performances in the U17 World Cup (two goals) and the U17 African Nations Cup (three goals) convinced Barcelona to push for his recruitment, with some observers already dubbing him the 'Egyptian Haaland'.

The deal was sealed in the form of a loan, but with the player's contract expiring, Al Ahly pushed for a buyout option to be included, to avoid losing their talented youngster for free. This option was recently triggered, worth 1.5 million euros (plus bonuses).

For Hamza Abdelkarim, the dream summer has already begun. The youngster has also received his high school diploma, which he followed remotely from the Egyptian team's camp in the United States, as they prepare for the World Cup.

Despite some difficulties during the winter, with negotiations between clubs dragging on and creating tension for the young attacker, Abdelkarim has finally been able to focus on his football. He has made a strong impression, with Hansi Flick already counting on him to be part of the first team during the preseason.

Although he may not start against the Belgian Red Devils, Abdelkarim could still make an appearance off the bench, as he did in his first two games for the national team.

There's no doubt that Rudi Garcia will have warned his team about the young player, who rose to fame with Al Ahly, nicknamed the Red Devils. Let's hope it doesn't bring him bad luck on the international stage tonight.