From SI · · 1m 10s
Barcelona Gives 18-Year-Old Haaland of Nile $115M Release Clause
Barcelona signs Egyptian teen Hamza Abdelkarim with $115m release clause, calling him 'Haaland of the Nile'.
In brief
Barcelona signs Egyptian teen Hamza Abdelkarim with $115m release clause, calling him 'Haaland of the Nile'. Barcelona has signed 18-year-old Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim with a $115 million release clause, labeling him the 'Haaland of the Nile'. Originally reported by SI.
New Contract
18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim signed a new Barcelona contract with $115 million release clause.
“When someone asks me which players I look up to and learn from, I think [Erling] Haaland is an amazing striker.”
Loan to Barça
Abdelkarim joined Barcelona on loan in February from Al Ahly, with a $1.7 million transfer fee.
Haaland Comparison
Abdelkarim calls Erling Haaland his role model, embracing the 'Haaland of the Nile' nickname.
“He has a lot of strengths. Always when I watch him, I find something I can learn from him and something I can do to improve my game.”
World Cup Impact
Abdelkarim played in four of Egypt's five World Cup matches this summer.
Physical Profile
Over six feet tall, Abdelkarim is a clinical finisher with four goals in five friendlies.
Team Role
Barcelona sees Abdelkarim as a potential No.9 striker to fill the gap left by Lewandowski.
Playing Time
Abdelkarim says he respects the coach's decision on playing time and works daily to improve.
“Playing time is the coach's decision, and I respect that.”
Egyptian First
Abdelkarim is the first Egyptian to play for Barcelona, with potential to become a key player for Egypt.
In short
Barcelona has signed 18-year-old Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim with a $115 million release clause, labeling him the 'Haaland of the Nile'.
