Barcelona’s long-awaited return to the iconic Spotify Camp Nou has encountered yet another setback, raising serious concerns over the timeline of the club’s stadium renovation project. Hopes of hosting the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy at the newly refurbished venue this Sunday have been dashed due to ongoing construction delays, prompting fresh doubts about when the stadium will be ready to welcome fans.
The club has confirmed that the planned capacity for their first home La Liga fixture on September 14th against Valencia will not be met. Instead, they have submitted a request to the city council seeking approval to host just 30,000 spectators — a far cry from the intended capacity. This application also covers their second home game, against Getafe, one week later.
If granted, this limited-capacity arrangement will mark the start of a phased reopening strategy. The second phase aims to expand the stadium’s operational capacity to 45,000 seats, intended to accommodate subsequent La Liga and Champions League fixtures. However, the timeline remains fluid, with council approval still pending and expected sometime next week.
One pressing concern is the proximity of the Champions League group stage, scheduled to begin between September 16th and 18th. If Barcelona is drawn to host a match during this round, they would be forced to play in front of a reduced crowd of only 30,000. The club has reportedly reached out to UEFA in hopes of avoiding a home game in the first round, just as they lobbied La Liga for a favorable fixture list. So far, no response has been received.
The uncertainty has led to increased pressure on the club’s leadership, especially with growing frustration among fans and stakeholders. The delays not only disrupt matchday logistics but also affect the club’s fragile financial recovery, as the completed stadium is expected to generate significant revenue streams.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has publicly acknowledged the lack of clarity surrounding the full reopening date. This admission reflects broader concerns about project mismanagement and the long-term financial implications of extended delays. With no clear end in sight, Barcelona faces a challenging period both on and off the pitch, as they navigate logistical hurdles while chasing domestic and European glory.
