Hamza Abdelkarim at the centre of controversy with Egypt’s national team

Hamza Abdelkarim, a Barcelona forward, sparked controversy during his time with Egypt’s national team over the current international break. Forbes says he began the friendly against South Africa on the bench before replacing Omar Marmoush in the 69th minute.

After the match, Egyptian media reported a heated discussion between the young forward and Egypt coach Hossam Hassan. Abdelkarim reportedly reproached him and became angry. The two men then reportedly left without shaking hands.

Forbes says the incident, together with what it described as too few opportunities for Abdelkarim to start, fuelled controversy in Egypt. Bashir El-Tabi, a former Zamalek player, called for the young forward to be given more chances and named in the starting line-up.

The magazine also said Abdelkarim was expected to return to Catalonia. Raphinha, meanwhile, had returned early from international duty because of discomfort in his right thigh muscle. Medical examinations, however, found no injury.