Hamza Abdelkarim unlikely to feature for Egypt at AFCON per Ahmed Raouf

Barcelona striker Hamza Abdelkarim is unlikely to feature for Egypt in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations because the tournament’s February schedule directly conflicts with active weeks on his club’s domestic calendar, Egypt under-20 team manager Ahmed Raouf stated publicly earlier this week.

AFCON Schedule Conflict Blocks International Duty

The 2027 edition of the U-20 AFCON takes place during February, a critical juncture in the European club season when squad depth is tested most severely. According to a report by SPORT, Barcelona will refuse to release the young Egyptian forward for the continental tournament. Egypt under-20 team manager Ahmed Raouf acknowledged the scheduling hurdle in his remarks to the media, noting that while participation in the continental championship is unlikely, the national setup still aspires to count on the player for the Youth World Cup later that same year.

The Egyptian youth setup regards Hamza as an integral pillar and a star player within their ranks. From Barcelona’s perspective, however, releasing the striker during the heart of the European campaign introduces unnecessary injury risks and depletes active squad depth.

Limited Minutes and the Path to Continuity

Hamza arrived at Camp Nou as one of Barcelona’s least known summer signings. Despite joining with minimal fanfare, the Egyptian striker quickly impressed club management during his initial weeks. Hansi Flick integrated the youngster into the squad after assessing that his specific tactical profile filled a distinct gap in the team.

Minutes on the pitch have remained scarce. Hamza currently serves as a third-choice striker behind Raphinha and Gabriel Jesus, though his playing time and overall prominence are projected to increase as the season approaches its conclusion. The player himself shares the club’s reluctance regarding international call-ups that interrupt his development.

Focusing entirely on securing continuity at the club level remains Hamza’s primary objective. Leaving Barcelona for international duty during active calendar weeks does not appeal to the forward, who is driven to earn regular opportunities as a starter under Flick. While the stance creates a difficult roadblock for Egypt’s youth preparations, both the player and his club are aligned in prioritizing his immediate club career over upcoming international fixtures.