Barcelona get the Camp Nou green light! Permit granted on time for La Liga champions to play next match in iconic stadium after several delay

Barcelona will receive the necessary permits to host their upcoming La Liga fixture against Valencia at a partially reopened Camp Nou on 14 September, according to a report from Sport. The club are expected to receive the final certificate of works in the coming days, which will allow them to officially begin ticket sales for their return to the iconic stadium after a two-season absence.

The move marks a significant milestone for Barcelona, who have been playing home matches at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys since major renovation work began on the Camp Nou in June 2023. This initial reopening represents the first phase of a long-term project that will continue for approximately two more years. The return is a major boost for the club and president Joan Laporta, who initiated the ambitious redevelopment plan after facing regular issues with this development.

The Camp Nou's return will happen in three distinct phases. The initial capacity will be limited to 27,000 spectators. This will increase to 45,000 by late October and then to 60,000 by the end of November. The final project aims for a total capacity of 105,000, which would make it the largest stadium in Europe.

With the primary permit secured, Barcelona awaits a final formal validation from the local council before putting tickets on sale for the Valencia match. Should there be any unexpected delays, the club have a contingency plan to make the official return against Getafe on 21 September. In the meantime, construction on other areas of the stadium, including the third tier and the installation of a new roof, will continue in parallel.