Barcelona's Camp Nou Homecoming Faces Major Setback as Return Becomes 'Almost Impossible'

Reports from Spain suggest there is "increasing doubt" surrounding Barcelona's planned swift comeback to Camp Nou, with sources questioning the feasibility of the club's recent bold announcements.

The current La Liga title holders announced this week that Barcelona would return to their iconic stadium for the Joan Gamper trophy match, a customary pre-season friendly scheduled for August 10.

This timeline moves ahead of the previous schedule mentioned by club president Joan Laporta several weeks ago, when he indicated that Barcelona's return would occur in September. Multiple regulatory requirements still need to be satisfied before the club can make their comeback, regardless of the timing.

Barcelona's first deputy mayor, Laia Bonet, stated that city council technicians cannot approve the construction because "they must complete the initial phase, including the galleries and the first and second tiers," according to AS.

The Madrid-based publication emphasized that Barcelona cannot obtain a temporary initial occupancy license until the first reconstruction phase reaches completion. This milestone has not yet been achieved.

Officials responsible for issuing permits face "criminal responsibility" if any accidents occur, ensuring that no shortcuts will be taken. These strict procedures must also pass through the additional oversight of the Spanish Association of Developers and Builders.

Association leader Xavi Vilajoana expressed his "surprise" at Barcelona's announcement. "Every company in this industry must fulfill specific requirements to prevent incidents," he stated. "I hope and believe this will happen if all permits receive approval. I don't expect anyone to violate regulations because the law applies equally to everyone."

Barcelona vice president Elena Fort—who previously assured fans would return to Camp Nou "by late November 2024, unless disaster strikes"—stated that the renovated venue could accommodate 60,000 spectators for August's friendly match. Vilajoana frankly characterized this projection as "nearly impossible."