Camp Nou Delay Forces Barcelona to Use Training Facilities

Due to delays in the Camp Nou renovation, Barcelona will begin their home LaLiga season at their training ground stadium, accommodating 6,000 fans. The Spanish team is essentially without a permanent home as a result of the construction setbacks.

The club stated on Tuesday that their match against Valencia on Sunday would take place at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. This smaller venue is located at their Sant Joan Despi training grounds, situated on the outskirts of Barcelona.

The decision to host their fourth LaLiga game of the season at this location stems from a nine-month delay in the renovation of the renowned Camp Nou, compelling the club to seek a temporary alternative.

The 6,000-seat stadium’s limited capacity necessitated a special waiver from LaLiga, as regulations stipulate that first-division clubs must have a minimum seating capacity of 15,000.

Over the past week, LaLiga officials have inspected the Johan Cruyff Stadium, requesting necessary modifications, including the installation of VAR cameras.

Barcelona had hoped to return to a partially completed Camp Nou with a capacity of 27,000; however, they were unable to secure the required permissions from the Barcelona City Council.

The Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium, where they have been playing their matches for the past couple of seasons amid low attendance, was deemed unsuitable after a Post Malone concert damaged the field.

“The Club is working diligently to obtain the necessary administrative permits for the opening of the Spotify Camp Nou stadium in the near future. Therefore, the match will ultimately be played at the Estadi Johan Cruyff,” the club mentioned in a statement.

“FC Barcelona appreciates its members’ and fans’ comprehension and backing throughout the intricate yet thrilling process of going back to the new Spotify Camp Nou. The Club will soon provide information on all details regarding match organization and ticketing.”

This predicament leaves Barcelona, following their LaLiga title win and a strong Champions League showing, without a fixed home as the season gets underway.