Barcelona receive encouraging update on Spotify Camp Nou for Joan Gamper clash | OneFootball

Barcelona fans finally have a reason to smile as their beloved team is set to return to Spotify Camp Nou for the 2025 edition of the Joan Gamper Trophy.

According to SPORT, the club has received a positive update regarding the stadium’s readiness, confirming that the iconic ground is expected to be fit to host the match on August 10, when Barça take on Italian side Como.

This news comes as a breath of fresh air, especially after months of uncertainty about the venue. At one point, Barça were even preparing for a worst-case scenario by shifting the match to the Johan Cruyff Stadium, which only holds around 6,000 fans.

More fans than expected could attend

The initial idea was to reopen Camp Nou with a capped capacity of 25,000 for safety reasons.

But due to rapid and safe progress in the construction work, that number could go up. If everything continues at this pace, the stadium could welcome around 35,000 fans on August 10.

Barcelona can expect more fans at the Joan Gamper Trophy. (Picture credit: Barcelona official website)

While this figure is still far from the 65,000 fans expected to attend official games later in the season, it is a significant improvement over earlier estimates.

Safety remains the top priority, and final capacity will be determined closer to the date based on structural and security assessments.

More than just a trophy match

The Joan Gamper Trophy has always been more than just a pre-season match. It is a celebration, a chance for fans to meet the new squad, get a glimpse of Hansi Flick’s team in action, and this year, a historic return to their spiritual home.

If all goes well, this return won’t be limited to a one-night event. The goal is to have Spotify Camp Nou ready to host La Liga matches by the end of September, marking a full-circle moment for the team and its fans.

The work is on schedule, the outlook is promising, and the homecoming is now within touching distance.