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UEFA Grants Barcelona first Away Game in Champions League to complete Camp Nou
According to Catalunya Ràdio’s Tot Costa, UEFA has unofficially informed FC Barcelona that, as requested, their opening fixture in the new League phase will be played away from home. The move allows Barça extra time to prepare their stadium situation amid uncertainty over a return to the Spotify Camp Nou.
Montjuïc Remains the Likely Option
With a comeback to Camp Nou looking increasingly unlikely, the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys is expected to host Barcelona’s European matches. The first home game would therefore arrive on Matchday 2, either September 30 or October 1, giving the club breathing room after the Post Malone concert scheduled for September 12.
🚨🚨🌕| Barcelona have extended their agreement with the City Council to use Montjuïc as a backup until February 2026, in case the return to Spotify Camp Nou is delayed, ensuring availability even for potential UCL playoffs.
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) August 20, 2025
[@mundodeportivo] 🏟🔵🔴 pic.twitter.com/Mo7UPSUu4y
If Barça starts the Champions League campaign at Montjuïc, UEFA regulations require them to complete it there until the end of January. UEFA has expressed satisfaction with the venue after two successful seasons hosting Barcelona’s matches.
UEFA Officials Inspect Camp Nou Progress
On Thursday morning, UEFA emissaries visited the Spotify Camp Nou to inspect ongoing renovations. The officials reviewed safety measures, television operations, and media accommodations, noting significant progress since June. However, a Final Construction Certificate remains essential for Barcelona to obtain a First Occupancy License from the City Council.
🚨📸 | UEFA officials have been inside the Spotify Camp Nou for 4+ hours now inspecting the stadium's condition, taking notes and clicking pictures. [@Guillembp01] #fcblive 👀 pic.twitter.com/xWu3PKh1B6
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) August 21, 2025
Alternatives for La Liga Fixtures on the Table
While working against the clock, Barça continues exploring backup stadiums for their September 13–14 clash against Valencia. Options include Girona’s Montilivi and Valencia’s Mestalla. The following home game, against Getafe on September 20–21, could see new turf installed if the Camp Nou is still unavailable.
Laporta’s Diplomacy Proves Effective
UEFA’s favorable decision follows a series of meetings between Barça president Joan Laporta and UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. Discussions also touched on reducing the financial fair play fine and the broader relationship between UEFA and the proposed Super League.
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