FC Barcelona fans are counting down the days until their return to Spotify Camp Nou. Unless an unexpected twist occurs, the Catalan club plans to play this year’s Joan Gamper Trophy match at the renovated stadium. But before that happens, four key steps must be completed.

Four crucial components

The first step involves submitting applications for construction and operational permits to Barcelona’s City Hall. The club has already provided all required documentation, and a two-week period for official approval is now underway. The second step is securing a temporary use permit from the Les Corts district – a process that typically takes two to three weeks. July will therefore be decisive for getting everything approved in time for the Gamper Trophy match at Spotify Camp Nou. The third requirement is permission to install an emergency footbridge near La Maternitat. The final permit must come directly from the Mossos d'Esquadra Central Operational Unit (UCO) to ensure public safety around the venue.

© FC Barcelona

UEFA officials visit stadium as club awaits report

According to Mundo Deportivo, UEFA inspectors recently visited the stadium. Communication between the club and European football’s governing body has been smooth, and the meeting served to strengthen ties and allow officials from Nyon to assess construction progress on-site. If all goes according to plan, the stadium could host its first UEFA Champions League match on September 16, 17, or 18. However, the actual date will depend on the draw scheduled for August 28, with the next possible home fixture falling on September 30 or October 1. Unlike in La Liga, Barça cannot request a delay for their European debut, meaning everything must be fully ready.

UEFA’s official report is expected within two weeks of the initial visit. Although inspectors will return, they already reviewed the temporary press section atop the main stand, the mixed zone inside Spotify Camp Nou, and the Auditori 1899, which will temporarily serve as the press room until the new media area is completed. They also confirmed that the U broadcasting zone meets the necessary dimensions.

© FC Barcelona

Test event and anticipation for the Gamper Trophy

UEFA officials will return for a final inspection before Champions League matches begin, but within the club, it is well understood that green lights from City Hall and the fire brigade will ultimately determine whether fans can return. A full test match is scheduled for the last week of July, covering all aspects of matchday operations, including media workflows. If needed, an additional trial will take place in early August. The official season opener will be held with 62,000 available seats across the Primera and Segunda Gradería.