FC Barcelona fans were eagerly anticipating the reopening of the Camp Nou this season, with hopes high that the renovated stadium would once again host high-profile matches.
The club’s preparations for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign have been closely watched, particularly given Barcelona’s intent to make a strong impression in Europe.
Ticket sales for the first home matches have been brisk, and supporters have been following updates about the stadium renovations with keen interest.
Media speculation over where the early-season games would take place has dominated headlines, as fans debated whether the Camp Nou would be ready in time.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s squad is focused on fine-tuning tactics ahead of their clash with Newcastle United tonight, and PSG looming as the second group stage opponent.
The main story has now been confirmed: Barcelona’s first home game in the Champions League will not be at the Camp Nou.
UEFA has officially listed, via their website, the fixture against PSG on 1 October at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Montjuic, putting speculation to rest.
Preparations are already underway at Montjuic, ensuring the match will meet UEFA’s requirements despite the temporary change in venue.
Delays at Camp Nou continue to affect the schedule.
Originally, Barcelona planned to reopen the stadium for the Joan Gamper Trophy in early August, but that match was moved to Estadi Johan Cruyff.
The first La Liga home game of the season, initially scheduled for 14 September at Camp Nou, was also relocated to the same venue due to ongoing renovations.
The Catalans have confirmed that the league game against Getafe will again be played at Johan Cruyff Stadium, with the hope now being that Camp Nou could reopen for the match against Real Sociedad on 28 September – just three days before the PSG clash.
Even if the Camp Nou reopens at the end of September, UEFA rules prevent Barcelona from hosting their Champions League fixture there because the lateral stand is still incomplete – a mandatory requirement for European matches.
Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys will therefore host the first group stage home game, while subsequent fixtures against Olympiacos, Eintracht Frankfurt, and FC Copenhagen are scheduled at Camp Nou.
UEFA has reportedly indicated that some flexibility may be possible during the league phase, allowing the Catalans to return to their main stadium once renovations are complete.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
