Spain: FC Barcelona sure of quick return to Camp Nou

source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra

Spain: FC Barcelona sure of quick return to Camp Nou With just over three months left in the year, FC Barcelona is under enormous pressure to ensure that the new Camp Nou can partially welcome its fans by the last month of 2024.

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Laporta's dilemma

Joan Laporta maintains his characteristic optimism regarding the progress of the stadium, but he also admitted that several obstacles have arisen that could affect the final opening date. We don’t want to set exact dates because they might change. Despite the difficulties, I believe we can return to the stadium by the end of the year. It’s very exciting, Laporta said at a recent press conference.

The president of FC Barcelona avoided discussing in detail the problems that have delayed the project. The modernization of the stadium has proven to be a massive challenge, and various complications have slowed the pace of work. Initially, a return was planned for November, but now it’s speculated that it may not happen until January of next year.

Laporta faces a serious dilemma. He wants FC Barcelona to return to Camp Nou before the end of the year, but this could impact the speed of the work. Currently, cranes are working at full capacity at the stadium. The absence of matches has accelerated progress since there is no need to halt construction or prepare the venue to meet organizational standards, particularly in terms of safety. Balancing sporting and logistical needs remains a significant challenge.

Design of Nou Camp Nou© FC Barcelona

December or January?

An alternative for the club’s management is to allow workers more time to complete the next phases of the project, which could mean pushing the return to Camp Nou to early 2025. However, Laporta remains convinced that December will mark the return. Three matches are scheduled for December: the first weekend game against UD Las Palmas, mid-month against Leganés, and just before Christmas, a crucial clash with Atlético Madrid. For Laporta, the game against Diego Simeone’s team presents the perfect opportunity to make a triumphant return to Camp Nou. The club is eagerly counting down the days, as each game held at Montjuïc results in significant financial losses, estimated at around €100 million. FC Barcelona cannot afford further delays.

Design of Nou Camp Nou© FC Barcelona

Merging the present with history

Recently, the Mirador de las Obras was inaugurated, offering a unique viewpoint where fans can observe the transformation of the Blaugrana stadium. This new attraction allows football and architecture enthusiasts to witness firsthand how the stadium is evolving day by day. The club highlights that, to give the Mirador de las Obras a special touch, the original benches from the old stadium have been installed.

Is there a better way to connect with the club's history than sitting in the same seats once occupied by legendary FC Barcelona players? reads the official website. Additionally, a photo booth has been installed, allowing visitors to capture this memorable experience. The entrance fee includes access to both the viewpoint and the museum, and it costs €28.

Construction of Spotify Camp Nou© Alecaom

All details in one place

FC Barcelona has launched a new version of the Espai Barça portal, where fans can track the progress, projects, and details of the work remaining at Spotify Camp Nou. The site features videos and visualizations showing what the stadium will look like once completed. Fans can also watch live streams and learn about the amenities and attractions that await them at the new venue.

The Espai Barça website also provides detailed information about the financing of the project and features dedicated sections for each part of the complex: Spotify Camp Nou, Estadi Johan Cruyff, Nou Palau Blaugrana, and Barça Campus. Supporters can also learn about the VIP offers, as well as the measures the club has taken to integrate Spotify Camp Nou into the city and promote sustainability.

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