Josep Maria Bartomeu has backed Hamza Abdelkarim to become an important player for Barcelona’s future, while explaining why the club did not pursue a move for Mohamed Salah during his time as president.
The Egyptian forward attracted attention after scoring twice for Barcelona in a friendly against Birmingham City last Friday. Barcelona ultimately lost the match on penalties, but Abdelkarim’s performance increased anticipation around his prospects with the Catalan club.
Speaking to the ON Sport Max channel, Bartomeu praised the youngster’s ability and mentality.
“Hamza Abdelkarim possesses great talent and is an important player for the club in the future. He also has an excellent mentality that will help him develop and give his best in the coming period,” said the former Barcelona president.
Abdelkarim has continued to receive opportunities to demonstrate his qualities since making a notable start with Barcelona. His early performances have raised hopes that he can develop into one of the key figures in the club’s long-term plans.
Bartomeu also addressed whether Barcelona could have signed Salah during his presidency. He said the Liverpool forward was considered one of the best players in world football, but indicated that the presence of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez made a deal particularly difficult at that time.
“When I was president of Barcelona, it was necessary for the club to try to sign the best players in the world. Mohamed Salah was a legendary player, produced outstanding performances with Liverpool and achieved many records,” Bartomeu said.
He added: “Mohamed Salah is a different and top-class player. He managed to create his own school at Liverpool, but it was difficult to sign him during that period because Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez were there.”
Bartomeu’s comments come as Abdelkarim continues to be given chances to establish himself at Barcelona. The Egyptian’s two goals against Birmingham City provided an early indication of his attacking potential, despite the defeat in the shootout.
For Bartomeu, however, the teenager’s prospects extend beyond one promising performance. He believes Abdelkarim’s talent and attitude can support his continued improvement and help him emerge as a significant part of Barcelona’s future.
The former president’s remarks on Salah also reflect the strength of Barcelona’s attacking options during that period. With Messi, Neymar and Suarez already forming the club’s forward line, Bartomeu said it was difficult to complete a move for the Liverpool star, despite his status among the world’s leading players.
