After a long wait of 894 days, FC Barcelona finally returned to their iconic home ground, the Spotify Camp Nou, on Friday. The club held an open training session in front of 23,000 fans, marking a symbolic and emotional step in their journey back to their legendary stadium.
First Session at the Rebuilt Camp Nou
Barcelona have not played a match at Camp Nou since 2023, when the stadium was closed for major renovation works. During this period, the Catalan giants temporarily relocated their home fixtures to the Olympic Stadium.
On Friday, head coach Hansi Flick inaugurated the training by taking the first shot himself — sending the ball into the net and igniting the first celebration at the renovated Camp Nou. The crowd erupted in applause, celebrating the club’s long-awaited homecoming.
A Historic Ground Reborn
Camp Nou has served as Barcelona’s home ground since 1957. The massive renovation project, launched in June 2023, carries an estimated cost of €1.3 billion. The refurbishment aims to modernise the legendary venue while preserving its rich heritage and atmosphere.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Stadium Name | Spotify Camp Nou |
| Opened | 1957 |
| Renovation Began | June 2023 |
| Estimated Cost | €1.3 billion |
| Temporary Home | Olympic Stadium |
| Approved Capacity | 25,991 |
| Requested Capacity | 45,401 |
Preparing for the Official Return
Friday’s training session was described as a “test event”, designed to prepare for the club’s full-scale return later this month. Club president Joan Laporta revealed that Barcelona are targeting their first home match at the refurbished stadium on 22 November against Athletic Bilbao in La Liga.
If that timeline does not align, the club may instead host Deportivo Alavés on 29 November, which coincides with Barcelona’s 126th anniversary — a symbolic occasion for the grand return. Should both dates prove unfeasible, Atlético Madrid could be the first visitors to the new-look Camp Nou on 2 December.
Fans and Future Capacity
Currently, the La Liga champions have been granted permission to host up to 25,991 spectators for initial fixtures. However, the club has formally requested approval to expand attendance to 45,401 fans once additional safety and renovation measures are completed.
The event was filled with excitement as Lamine Yamal and other young stars took to the field, cheered on by thousands of fans waving the famous blaugrana colours. The atmosphere inside the stadium was electric — a clear reminder that the heart of Barcelona football is finally beating again at Camp Nou.
