The date for FC Barcelona’s return to Spotify Camp Nou remains uncertain. The club had planned to host Real Sociedad at their home ground, but city authorities did not issue the necessary permits, citing safety concerns. All signs, however, point to a homecoming within the next few weeks.

Barça–Girona as possible inauguration

The most realistic reopening date is now October 18, for the La Liga match against Girona. While the date has not been officially confirmed, city officials are hopeful that the fixture can be played at Camp Nou. Barcelona’s deputy mayor, Albert Batlle, expressed confidence that necessary safety improvements could be completed in time to allow partial reopening.

UEFA and the Olympiakos match

Three days later, on October 21, Camp Nou is scheduled to host a Champions League fixture against Olympiakos, as part of the group stage’s third round. UEFA has already listed the stadium as the venue on its official website.

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However, hosting the league match does not automatically guarantee UEFA approval for the Champions League game. The club must demonstrate progress on renovations compared to La Liga standards, including opening the Lateral Stand to increase capacity from 27,000 to 45,000. UEFA also requires league stage matches to be played at a single, official venue. Barcelona has submitted a special request for approval.

FC Barcelona submitted the final certificate for phase 1A works on Monday and is now awaiting the License for First Partial Use, which will allow opening the main stand and part of the Gol Sud sector for 27,000 spectators. Phase 1B, necessary for Champions League matches, is already fully documented. The club is optimistic UEFA will grant special permission, as the change is due to necessity rather than profit motives.