  We combine adaptive template fitting and pixel count statistics in order to
assess the nature of the Galactic center excess in Fermi-LAT data. We
reconstruct the flux distribution of point sources in the inner Galaxy well
below the Fermi-LAT detection threshold, and measure their radial and
longitudinal profiles. Point sources and diffuse emission from the Galactic
bulge each contributes $\mathcal{O}$(10\%) of the total emission therein,
disclosing a sub-threshold point-source contribution to the Galactic center
excess.
