Hamza Abdelkarim remains outside Barcelona’s senior squad

Hamza Abdelkarim has not been registered in Barcelona’s main first-team squad, despite his name appearing on La Liga’s website. The listing reflects his place in the reserve group linked to the senior side, rather than a promotion to its official senior roster.

His No. 29 shirt is the clearest indication of his status. Barcelona’s first-team numbers run from 1 to 25, while reserve players linked to the senior squad can be listed with numbers from 26 to 50. The club’s official first-team list does not include the 18-year-old Egyptian forward. He can still be called upon by Hansi Flick when required, while continuing to play for Barça Atlètic.

Barcelona’s current plan is to keep Abdelkarim with the reserve side, where regular minutes can support his development, while allowing him to train with the senior squad. He has not played in the opening two La Liga rounds, but remains highly regarded after leading the club’s scoring during pre-season. The club is also working on a contract renewal, including improved financial terms and a substantial increase to his current €15 million release clause.

His European status will depend on the final registration decision. Remaining with the reserve group would leave him unable to enter Barcelona’s Champions League squad because he does not yet meet the required training-period conditions for the relevant reserve-player lists. Spain’s transfer window closes on September 1, with UEFA’s list deadline on September 2.