Camp Nou comeback delayed: Barcelona face stadium setback

Initially, the club had hoped to host the Joan Gamper Trophy this Sunday, but that plan was scrapped.

Now, they have learned they cannot achieve the desired 60,000-capacity for their first La Liga match on 14 September against Valencia.

The Blaugrana have submitted a request to the local council for a licence to open the first phase of the stadium, allowing just 30,000 fans for the Valencia clash. This limited capacity would also apply to their next home game against Getafe a week later, with only the main stand and one end of the ground open.

"We're working closely with the authorities to ensure a safe and phased return to Camp Nou," said a Barcelona spokesperson. "The priority is getting fans back as soon as possible, even if it's a reduced number to start."

The club aim to move to a second phase, increasing capacity to 45,000 for subsequent La Liga matches and Champions League fixtures. The full 60,000-capacity, originally targeted for September, is now a longer-term goal. The council are expected to respond to the licence request next week.

Complicating matters, the Champions League group stage kicks off between 16-18 September, immediately after the Valencia game. If Barcelona are drawn to play at home in the opening round, they would be restricted to the 30,000-capacity setup.

The club have lobbied UEFA, as they did with La Liga, to avoid a home fixture in the first matchday, but no decision has been confirmed.

"It's a logistical challenge, but we're optimistic about finding a solution," said club director Joan Laporta. "Camp Nou is the heart of this club, and we want it beating again soon."

No official statements from UEFA or the club have surfaced on X regarding the Champions League scheduling.