UEFA has issued Barcelona a firm ultimatum to resolve their financial plans for the 2025/26 Champions League.
Barcelona is racing against time to return to its iconic Camp Nou, home to Spotify, with the 2025/26 season approaching quickly.
The club has faced significant hurdles in completing the first phase of renovations, struggling with construction delays and pending clearances.
While hopes remain high for a La Liga homecoming in September, the requirements for hosting UEFA Champions League matches are more stringent, casting doubt on whether the stadium will be ready.
As the Champions League draw looms, the pressure is mounting for the Blaugrana to finalize their plans.
UEFA has issued a stern directive, setting a September 21 deadline for Barcelona to confirm their home stadium for the Champions League group phase, per The Athletic.
The governing body has also granted relief, allowing the Catalans to play their first match away, providing extra time to prepare Camp Nou.
This concession could prove vital, as the first phase of renovations does not yet meet UEFA’s broadcast standards.
However, the catch is clear: once Barcelona selects a venue, such as the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Montjuïc, they must stick with it until the knockout rounds, as UEFA prohibits mid-phase venue changes.
The stakes are high for Barcelona, who could face formidable opponents like Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, or Borussia Dortmund in the league phase.
Playing at Camp Nou, even with a reduced capacity of 27,000, would boost matchday revenue and fan morale, critical given the club’s financial challenges.
The alternative—continuing at Montjuïc, secured until February 2026—remains a viable fallback but lacks the emotional and financial weight of their historic home.
As the September 21 deadline approaches, Barcelona’s leadership, led by Joan Laporta, must ensure Camp Nou meets UEFA’s safety and broadcast criteria.
The coming weeks will be decisive, with the club’s ability to navigate these challenges shaping their Champions League campaign.
For now, the Blaugrana are banking on UEFA’s flexibility to make their long-awaited Camp Nou return a reality.
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