With time running out and the new Camp Nou nearing its opening date, FC Barcelona's vice-president was asked by La Vanguardia about the club's announced tribute to Leo Messi, which the Argentinian never received. Elena Fort makes the date of the match contingent on the progress of the stadium.

Barcelona assures it will return on August 10, but has a plan B

At the end of June, FC Barcelona announced the date for their long-awaited return to Camp Nou, but many doubt whether the workers will make it in time for 10 August. Others doubt that the announced capacity of 60,000 seats is real, speculating that the debut of the new stadium at Les Corts could take place with only 20,000 culers on the stands. Videos published online show that inside the stadium a lot of spaces have not yet entered the finishing work phase, yet hosting a match requires not only seats in the stands, but also toilets or bars.

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In an interview with La Vanguardia, club vice-president Elena Fort assures that there is no information from the technical team to indicate that it will not succeed. She stipulates, however, that it is the city council that has to give the permits. The first 10-15 days of July will be decisive, that's when we will organise tests, she says, noting that preparing the entrances and ensuring fan safety will be key. Asked if the club has a plan B in case of failure, Fort replies: Yes. Life is not 100% predictable, something can always happen. But we are focused on returning [to Camp Nou - ed. note] on August 10.

First the end of the works, then Messi's return

According to Elena Fort, in a year's time Camp Nou will be finished except for the roof, which will not be completed in the summer of 2026. Therefore, the match, which will be a tribute to Leo Messi, will be organised afterwards, as the club wants the Argentinian to play in a fully completed stadium. However, Fort assures that it will definitely happen because he is the best player in Barça's history.

The tribute to Leo Messi will most likely be a match between Barça and Leo Messi's club. For now, signals from his entourage indicate that he will stay at Inter Miami.