Barcelona inform UEFA: Spotify Camp Nou chosen as home stadium for CL league phase | OneFootball

In a major development, SPORT reports that FC Barcelona have already communicated to UEFA that their intention is to host the Champions League group stage at Spotify Camp Nou ahead of the deadline of 28 August.

The decision, which was due to be communicated to the governing body on the same day as the draw for the league phase of the competition, has been made, albeit with an asterisk.

The Catalans do not wish to take unnecessary risks and, as per the report, will maintain direct contact with UEFA over the next 48 hours so that, if the permits are not granted in time, the entity can activate its ‘Plan B’ at Montjuïc.

Preparations at Camp Nou continue against the clock

At Camp Nou, arrangements are progressing under time pressure. Barcelona have secured the certificate of completion for phase 1A, which would allow the Tribuna and Gol Sud (South Goal) sections to open with a capacity of approximately 27,000 spectators.

However, this would not be sufficient under European regulations, as UEFA requires that at least one of the lateral stands be operational for television broadcast purposes.

This requirement will be fulfilled in phase 1B, when the lateral stand can open and capacity will increase to 45,000 seats. The Gol Nord (North Goal) stand is reserved for phase 1C, the final stage scheduled in the construction plan.

To gain additional time, the Blaugrana board requested UEFA to play the first matchday of the group stage away from home.

Champions League nights to return to Camp Nou soon. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

UEFA will not object, allowing the European debut in Barcelona to be postponed until 30 September or 1 October – two crucial weeks that could determine whether the team returns to Camp Nou or must continue playing at Montjuïc.

Montjuic as a backup

The alternative scenario is secured, as the club has reached an agreement with Barcelona de Serveis Municipals (BSM) to extend the license for the use of Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys until February.

This ensures coverage not only for the league phase but also for hypothetical playoff matches prior to the Round of 16, in case Barça does not finish in the top direct qualification positions as in the previous season.

The key date remains 28 August. On that day, during the draw in Nyon, Barça will have to make a final decision regarding which stadium it will use for the entire group stage.

Once the home ground has been communicated to UEFA, no changes will be permitted until the knockout rounds.

Barcelona understand that returning home is more than a logistical detail: it represents the recovery of an incalculable emotional and competitive factor after two years of exile, as well as an economic boost through ticketing and VIP seating.

However, the clock continues to tick, and the final decision will be announced this Thursday.