The most notable incident, however, came after the match. Egyptian outlet Winwin published footage showing Hossam Hassan speaking very seriously to Hamza on the pitch. <\/p>\n
The publication described the conversation as a reprimand from the manager towards the Barcelona player, although it has not emerged exactly what he was criticised for. <\/p>\n
The two did not even shake hands after the exchange and went straight to the dressing rooms, with Hamza visibly angry.<\/p>\n
![\"Hamza](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/fc-barcelona-v-al-ahly-sc-joan-gamper-trophy-1-2-1024x748.jpg\")
Hamza was used as a substitute against South Africa. (Photo by Alex Caparros\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n
Criticism of Hassan\u2019s handling<\/p>\n
The footage quickly fuelled debate in Egypt, particularly because the striker has been given very few opportunities since making the step up to the senior side. <\/p>\n
There is currently no indication of a breakdown between the two or of a disciplinary issue, but Hassan\u2019s reaction has added another element to a situation that is beginning to cause some unease around the young forward.<\/p>\n
Criticism of the manager has also come from respected figures in Egyptian football. Bashir El Tabei, the former Egypt international and Zamalek player, questioned the way the match against South Africa was handled and called for Hamza to be given a greater role.<\/p>\n
The former defender felt that, given it was a friendly, the Barcelona player should have started and been given more minutes to show what he can do. <\/p>\n
![\"Hossam](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/argentina-v-egypt-round-of-16-fifa-world-cup-2026-1024x696.jpg\")
ATLANTA, GEORGIA \u2013 JULY 07: Hossam Hassan, Head Coach of Egypt, reacts after the 2-3 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium on July 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Buda Mendes\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n
\u201cThe team has no personality or charisma, except Muhannad Lashin, and it would have been better to include Hamza Abdulkarim in the starting line-up and give him a greater opportunity, especially considering that it is a friendly match,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Hamza\u2019s growing profile in Egypt<\/p>\n
The debate is particularly relevant given Hamza\u2019s current situation at Barcelona. His progress over recent months has raised expectations in Egypt, where he is regarded as one of the most promising talents of his generation. <\/p>\n
His recent first senior international goal appeared to open the door to a more important role, but Hossam Hassan continues to manage his minutes very cautiously.<\/p>\n
Hamza therefore returns to the spotlight in his home country for two reasons: calls for him to have a greater role and the tense exchange with the manager after the defeat to South Africa. <\/p>\n