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Barcelona’s hopes of returning to the iconic Camp Nou have once again been delayed, forcing the club to host their much-anticipated Champions League showdown against Paris Saint-Germain on October 1 at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Montjuïc.
The Catalan giants had planned a grand reopening of their €1.5 billion redeveloped stadium this season, but ongoing construction setbacks have left their legendary 99,000-seater home unusable. As a result, the Olímpic Lluís Companys, with just over 55,000 seats, will continue to serve as Barcelona’s “home away from home.”
A setback in Barcelona’s Camp Nou dream
Renovation work at Camp Nou, which began in June 2023, was originally scheduled to conclude in time for Barcelona’s 2025/26 campaign. Hopes of a reopening during the summer collapsed, and successive deadlines have come and gone.
First, the Joan Gamper Trophy was moved to Johan Cruyff Stadium. Then, Barcelona’s La Liga opener against Valencia on September 14, intended as a symbolic return to Camp Nou, had to be relocated as well. Despite a dominant 6-0 victory, the absence of their spiritual home left fans frustrated.
The October clash against PSG was initially viewed as the perfect opportunity to welcome Europe’s elite back to a modernized Camp Nou. However, the stadium remains a construction site, with cranes and scaffolding replacing the atmosphere of roaring supporters.
UEFA rules leave Barcelona little choice
Barcelona attempted to find short-term relief by requesting UEFA to schedule their opening group match away from home. That wish was granted as they travelled to Newcastle. But the competition’s regulations, specifically Article 25.08, stipulate that clubs must play all home fixtures in a single venue throughout the group stage.
UEFA does provide some flexibility, but any venue changes would only be considered between the group stage and knockout rounds. That effectively ties Barcelona to the Olímpic Lluis Companys for the remainder of 2025’s European fixtures.
Olímpic Lluis Companys: the temporary fortress
Perched atop Montjuïc hill, the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys has become a reluctant yet necessary refuge for the Blaugrana. With a capacity of 55,000, it offers just over half the size of Camp Nou, making it a challenging adjustment for supporters accustomed to the grand atmosphere of their historic ground.
While the Olimpic has provided stability over the past two seasons, patience among fans is beginning to wear thin. The €1.5bn revamp of Camp Nou promises state-of-the-art facilities, increased comfort, and a reinvigorated matchday experience. Until then, Barcelona will continue their European journey away from their true home.
The clash against PSG will not only be a test of Barcelona’s European ambitions but also of their resilience as they adapt to life without Camp Nou. Supporters continue to dream of the day the refurbished stadium finally opens its doors, transforming frustration into celebration.
Until then, the Olimpic Lluis Companys remains the stage for Barcelona’s Champions League nights — a reminder that even footballing giants sometimes need patience before stepping back into the spotlight of their true home.
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