Barcelona’s return to the iconic Spotify Camp Nou is still uncertain, with just weeks remaining before the planned Joan Gamper Trophy match on August 10.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the stadium must still pass crucial inspections by city and fire officials, who are scheduled to visit the site next week.
Until then, no confirmation has been given about whether Barça will be allowed to host the Gamper at their home ground.
While the club had initially planned for 60,000 fans to attend the match, internal estimates have now been significantly reduced.
Now, sources suggest that, at best, only between 25,000 and 35,000 supporters will be able to attend, should the stadium get the green light.
Race against time for Joan Gamper and La Liga return
The outlet mentions that construction workers are working at full speed to prepare the stadium in time.
Barça have already submitted all required documentation, including responses to the fire department’s latest report, which is essential for the business licence and matchday approval.
Barcelona are racing agianst time. (Picture credit: Barcelona official website)
Club officials remain hopeful but are aware that final authorisation is out of their hands.
Even if the Gamper match is approved, there are still compromises. For instance, the first-team dressing room won’t be ready, so the club plans to use the visiting team’s changing rooms as a temporary solution.
Furthermore, access complications may lead to some areas of the first and second tiers being closed off entirely.
La Liga match the priority
Barcelona aim to use only the first and second tiers while construction on the VIP boxes and third tier continues. The club’s main target remains the La Liga home opener against Valencia on September 14.
For that, the goal is to have a 60,000 capacity ready, but that will depend on passing another round of inspections—this time also involving a La Liga delegation.
With time running short and safety the top concern, Barça’s dream of returning to Camp Nou is not yet certain.
The next week will be key in determining whether fans can finally come home or if the wait must continue a little longer.