Barcelona continues to face setbacks in Spain

Barcelona’s hope to reunite with fans at Camp Nou once again shattered as the City Council has not granted safety approval, forcing Hansi Flick’s team to temporarily relocate to Montjuic.

Barcelona is in the final stages of renovating Camp Nou, where the management hopes to reopen by this weekend to host Real Sociedad. The initial plan was to use the stadium with a temporary capacity of around 27,000 seats. However, the Barcelona City Council has refused to issue the permit due to concerns that safety standards have not yet been fully met, causing Barca’s return plans to be postponed once again.

Previously, President Joan Laporta and Sports Vice President Elena Fort expressed confidence that the permit would be approved. But the reality differs, as reported by Sport, with the council prioritizing safety above all else. Deputy Mayor Laia Bonet stated:

“We are in the final phase of the renovation. However, we cannot allow spectators into the stadium if all safety requirements are not completely fulfilled. The council understands Barcelona’s desire to return soon, but our responsibility is to ensure the safety of the fans.”.

An anonymous source from the council further detailed the issues to be addressed: “Mainly deficiencies in emergency exits, incomplete clearing of the site, limited access and traffic safety. Signage, handrails, and stairs do not meet standards. However, the workload is not extensive and can be resolved quickly.”.

With Camp Nou remaining closed, Barcelona has confirmed upcoming matches will be held at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Montjuic. This venue will host Blaugrana’s game against Real Sociedad on Sunday and the Champions League match versus Paris Saint-Germain on October 1st.

Although no official date has been set for Camp Nou’s reopening, both Barcelona and the city council hope all issues will be resolved shortly. “We share Barca’s wish for a swift return, but absolute safety must be guaranteed,”Deputy Mayor Bonet emphasized.

Until all inspections are complete, Montjuic will remain Hansi Flick’s team’s temporary home, supporting them through domestic and European matches. This is a challenging period but also a stepping stone for Barcelona’s prompt return to their historic and pride-filled Camp Nou.

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