Barcelona might be back at Camp Nou sooner than fans expected. After more than a year away from their famous home, the club is targeting a return after the September international break, though nothing is completely certain just yet.
There’s talk about the Joan Gamper Trophy being played there for the first time since renovations began last August. If it happens, it’ll be more than just a friendly. The game will serve as a live test to check if the stadium is ready for top-flight matches again La Liga, Champions League, and all.
Softfootball understands that the plan right now is to play against Como, an Italian club. Originally, the idea was to welcome around 60,000 fans, but that number will likely drop.
Construction delays have forced the club to rethink, and reports suggest that only 25,000 to 35,000 supporters will be allowed in. The ends of the stadium behind the goals will stay closed for now.
Mundo Deportivo cliamed that Barcelona has secured the first of two key permits to hold the Gamper Trophy at Camp Nou. The one they have is for construction and event activity. The second permit, called the “first entrance” licence, will be issued only when the final bits of construction are done and safety checks are passed.
A test event, without fans, is being planned for July 28. It’s a behind-closed-doors run-through, just to make sure everything works. If that goes well, then it’s all systems go.
But don’t expect a league match there immediately. The first official game at Camp Nou probably won’t be until the fourth round of the La Liga season. That lines up with a home match against Valencia, which is scheduled around September 13 or 14. Still, signs are positive.
Also, Softfootball earlier reported that Barcelona is also planning to pay tribute to Lionel Messi in the club’s grand opening. UEFA delegation has already visited; they’re confident the stadium will be ready in time for the Champions League group stage. La Liga has reportedly given its approval too.
So if all goes to plan, Barcelona’s long journey away from Camp Nou will finally end in September. The fans and probably Messi will be watching.
