Hamza Abdel Karim Resolves Work Permit Issue, Set to Join Barcelona Atlètic

Moroccan journalist Ashraf Ben Ayad has confirmed that the administrative crisis involving Egyptian youth international Hamza Abdel Karim and Barcelona Atlètic has officially been resolved.

Ben Ayad revealed on his official account on the social media platform X that the young Egyptian forward has finally obtained his work permit in Spain, allowing him to begin his journey with the Catalan club. He also confirmed that the player arrived in Barcelona yesterday to join the team.

Abdel Karim had joined FC Barcelona during the last winter transfer window on loan from Al Ahly. 

However, he was unable to feature for the team in recent months due to administrative procedures related to securing a work permit in Spain.

In recent weeks, the 18-year-old returned to Egypt to complete and speed up the required paperwork. 

After successfully obtaining the permit, he is now eligible to play for Barcelona Atlètic, the club’s reserve side.

The move marks a historic moment, as Abdel Karim becomes the first Egyptian player in Barcelona’s history. 

The young striker caught the attention of the Spanish club’s scouts thanks to his impressive performances with Egypt’s U-17 national team, particularly during the U-17 World Cup hosted in Qatar last November.

Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo previously highlighted the potential of the Egyptian forward after Barcelona officially announced his signing. The report described him as one of the latest African prospects the club is investing in as part of its long-term development project.

The outlet described Abdel Karim as a fast striker who excels inside the penalty area, noting his physical strength and strong aerial ability. The player recently turned 18 on January 1, making him eligible to continue his development within Barcelona’s famous La Masia system.