Turf installation complete as Barcelona target September return to Spotify Camp Nou | OneFootball

Although no football will be played on the new surface until the start of the 2025-26 season, the turf at the Spotify Camp Nou has already been fully installed as the stadium works near completion, reports Mundo Deportivo.

The plan is for FC Barcelona to reopen their iconic home stadium for fans in September later this year and this is a logical step to guarantee the best possible playing surface by then.

The initial plan was for the Blaugrana to move back to the renovated Camp Nou by the end of 2024, but construction delays kept pushing the date forward.

After a certain point, the La Liga leaders gave up the idea of returning to the hallowed turf in the ongoing season despite having had hopes of hosting the final El Clasico of the season on 11 May at Camp Nou.

But things are headed in the right direction, with the installation of the grass on the pitch now being completed.

Barcelona eyeing a September return to Camp Nou. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

It now ensures that all systems – drainage, ventilation, air conditioning – will be properly set and fully operational in time for the stadium’s reopening.

It also allows time to identify and correct any potential issues that may arise during the preparation phase.

Barcelona’s season will start in August but a return to the stadium in September means that the Joan Gamper Trophy will not be played at Camp Nou.

Furthermore, as reported already, the Blaugrana will ask La Liga to begin their new season with a series of away matches until their home is ready to welcome fans back.

In any case, the new Camp Nou is taking shape, and the return of Barcelona’s first team to their home ground is drawing ever closer.