Barcelona’s squad continues to adapt to life under Hansi Flick, with new arrivals bedding in quickly as the club prepares for the gruelling season ahead.
Expectations are growing for a strong campaign both in La Liga and in Europe.
Yet away from the pitch, the spotlight is firmly fixed on the progress of the monumental Camp Nou redevelopment.
Supporters have been eagerly awaiting the chance to return home after months away, but the countdown to UEFA’s deadline is creating new headaches.
Now, the club’s hierarchy is facing an unexpected dilemma that could shape Barcelona’s entire European journey this season.
The first phase of the Camp Nou project is on a knife edge, with work still ongoing as the deadline to confirm the stadium’s availability draws ever closer.
Barcelona must notify UEFA in the coming days whether their iconic home will be ready to host Champions League league-stage matches.
Failure to secure approval would mean continuing at Montjuic, a prospect that has already drained finances and tested the patience of fans.
UEFA rules make the situation even trickier, as a club cannot switch between stadiums once the league stage begins.
This effectively blocks Barcelona from moving back into Spotify Camp Nou until the knockout rounds, potentially missing out on four crucial European nights at home.
According to Marca, Barcelona are exploring the radical idea of a “dual stadium policy.”
This would see Montjuic used for Champions League fixtures while Spotify Camp Nou gradually reopens for La Liga clashes, provided licences are granted.
The completion certificate for the new stadium has not yet been signed off, meaning the City Council cannot issue the vital occupancy licence.
Barcelona had earmarked the September 14 clash with Valencia for the grand return, albeit with a modest 27,000 capacity before scaling up to 60,000.
However, a fresh hurdle has emerged, as Montjuic is already booked for a concert just two days before the Valencia tie.
If permits are not secured in time, the Catalans may be forced into an embarrassing retreat back to Montjuic for both domestic and European fixtures.
The coming week is therefore critical, with UEFA demanding clarity as Barcelona scramble to avoid a chaotic stadium shuffle that could overshadow their season.
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