Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised young Egypt striker Hamza Abdulkareem after his two-goal performance in the 2-2 draw with Birmingham City, describing the 18-year-old as humble and possessing “great character”.
Barcelona went on to lose the match on penalties, but Abdulkareem’s display strengthened his claim for a regular role as the club’s central striker, a position Barcelona are reportedly seeking to reinforce during the current summer transfer window.
Speaking at his post-match news conference, Flick said: “Hamza is very humble and has a great character. He always tries to give his best and has great potential.”
The German added that Abdulkareem had shown precisely the qualities he expects from a centre-forward by being in the right positions inside the penalty area.
“As a striker, you have to be present in those situations inside the box, and he was there today. That is what I demand from a centre-forward,” said Flick.
The manager’s comments represent a significant endorsement of Abdulkareem as competition grows for the position. The Egyptian scored both of Barcelona’s goals against Birmingham City, giving him an opportunity to make a strong impression while the club considers whether to bring in another striker.
Flick refuses to discuss potential signings
Flick avoided discussing possible new arrivals when asked whether another forward could join his squad.
“We focus only on what we have, on the players who are currently here, and nothing else. I do not dream,” he said.
He insisted that Barcelona’s progress would be determined by their daily work rather than by transfer speculation.
“We have a big objective this season, but everything depends on how we work every day. The most important thing is the players’ effort, their mentality and the team’s dynamics. In the end, the team is the most important thing,” Flick added.
Flick acknowledged that Barcelona struggled at stages of the match, particularly during the first half, when they failed to keep possession and made several mistakes.
“We lacked possession of the ball and made some mistakes, but I am happy. The general feeling is good, and the entire coaching staff are satisfied with the performance of the young players,” he said.
He was particularly pleased with how the reserve and young players responded against a stronger-level opponent.
“The most important thing is that they showed their quality, and I really appreciate that. It is a pleasure to work with them and watch their reactions in matches like these, with this fighting spirit,” said Flick.
Adeyemi makes first Barcelona appearance
Flick also praised new summer signing Karim Adeyemi after the forward made his first appearance for Barcelona.
“He has great potential to show. There are aspects he still needs to improve, but he has not trained with us for a long time and he has a high level of quality. It is good to see him on the pitch, and I am sure he will add a lot,” said Flick.
The manager also addressed Marcus Rashford’s departure after his loan spell from Manchester United, as well as the arrival of Anthony Gordon.
“It was not an easy situation for him, and sometimes loan deals do not become permanent transfers. We will miss him, but we have to accept it. Gordon has arrived, he is very excited to play for Barcelona and he is performing very well,” Flick said.
On Spain winger Ferran Torres, Flick added: “I spoke to him during the World Cup, but he is now on holiday; he is an important player for us.”
His comments underline Torres’ importance to his plans for the coming season.
