The return to Spotify Camp Nou was one of the biggest topics in July. Although FC Barcelona had announced that the Gamper Trophy match would be played on the newly renovated stadium in Les Corts on August 10, just 23 days later the club backed out, stating that the return would have to be postponed.

Documentation still in progress

The delay was attributed to difficulties obtaining the licencia de primera ocupación – the official permit required to use the stadium. As a result, the city of Barcelona and the club jointly agreed to slow down operations and delay the team’s return.

Barcelona mayor Jaume Collboni addressed the situation in an interview with El Nacional. He emphasized that the city is also eager for FC Barcelona to return to Spotify Camp Nou as soon as possible and that cooperation with the club in finding an alternative venue has been smooth and will continue. However, he also noted that the authorities are obliged to comply with all legal regulations, regardless of the nature of the investment.

Regarding the occupancy permit (licencia de primera ocupación), he stressed that it requires specific technical standards to be met, especially concerning safety. The decision will therefore depend on the opinions of the relevant specialists and the pace of work. The city aims to handle the process as efficiently as possible while remaining compliant with the law. As of now, there is no confirmed new date for Barça’s return to Spotify Camp Nou – everything depends on construction progress and technical inspections.

© FC Barcelona

Champions League game to be played away

As previously revealed by FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the club has asked UEFA to schedule their first group stage match in the Champions League (between September 16 and 18) as an away fixture. Laporta also confirmed that three key construction phases have been agreed upon with the city to keep the renovation project on schedule. The club’s goal remains an early return to the stadium – ideally in time for the league match against Valencia on September 12.

Although alternative options exist, the club is currently not considering them. Laporta rejected the idea of continuing to play at the Montjuïc, pointing out that its limited capacity does not meet the club’s or fans’ expectations.

© FC Barcelona

Will Leo Messi return to Camp Nou?

Finally, Joan Laporta addressed the possibility of a grand opening event for the new Camp Nou, suggesting that honoring Lionel Messi would be the best way to mark the occasion. He revealed that this idea has already been discussed with Messi’s family. The FC Barcelona president expressed hope that such a tribute will happen, saying it would be a great honor for the club – although the final decision rests with Messi and his loved ones.