Barcelona target mid-September return to Camp Nou, will not host Gamper Trophy at stadium | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have encountered multiple setbacks and delays in the ongoing renovation works at their iconic stadium – Spotify Camp Nou.

The club’s initial target was to return to the hallowed turf by the end of 2024, but the date has been pushed forward many times since thanks to construction delays.

In the end, the Catalans gave up hope on returning to their old stadium before the end of the season and will be seeing out the rest of the campaign at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Montjuic.

Barcelona eye September return to Camp Nou

Now, according to SPORT, Barcelona have outlined a new internal deadline for returning to their iconic home – Spotify Camp Nou.

Following delays in the renovation works overseen by Turkish construction company Limak, the Blaugrana now believe that a return should happen in time for the start of the UEFA Champions League group stage next season in mid-September.

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

The Catalans also informed Limak that the stadium must be ready to welcome 60,000 spectators and host official matches, pending the required safety and usage licences from local authorities, by 16 September, when the Champions League group stage kicks off.

UEFA regulations stipulate that clubs must play all group-stage matches at the same venue. At present, Barça do not plan to request continued use of the Estadi Olímpic for the 2025/26 campaign.

No Gamper Trophy at Camp Nou

A mid-September return also means that Barcelona have pretty much ruled out hosting the upcoming Joan Gamper Trophy at Spotify Camp Nou.

The traditional pre-season fixture, usually played in August (though not yet scheduled for this year), will again take place away from their historic ground.

The game was played at Montjuic this season, with Barça failing to win against AS Monaco. It remains to be seen where the Blaugrana schedule their traditional curtain-raiser for the 2025/26 campaign.