FC Barcelona has been working for months on their return to Spotify Camp Nou. But the reality is that it seems increasingly complicated for this to happen before the end of the season. According to recent reports, the works are progressing but not at the necessary pace for the team to play an official match in the stadium in the next 6 or 7 weeks.
What was initially planned as a return in November shifted to May, and now even that forecast seems unlikely. The club still holds hope but has made it clear on several occasions that the priority is for the stadium to be completely ready and safe without rushing the reopening.
The blaugrana board has insisted that the main objective is to ensure that the stadium's renovation meets the highest architectural standards.
Delay in VIP Boxes and Bureaucratic Problems
One of the major obstacles facing Barça's return to Spotify Camp Nou is the construction of the VIP boxes. A key element within the stadium renovation project.
The initial plan was to complete the first two rings of the stadium, which would allow for a capacity of 60,000 spectators. However, the third tier will not be built with the public present, leading to a restructuring of the construction process.
Additionally, the VIP boxes have been outsourced to a company different from Limak, the main contractor. The estimated time for their completion is three months. This delay directly affects the planned schedule for the stadium's reopening.
But the problems don't end there. In addition to the construction delay, there is a lack of key permits. Among them is the fire plan, which must be approved by the fire department for the stadium to receive the public.
Meanwhile, before opening the doors of Spotify Camp Nou, it is necessary to remove all the heavy machinery used in the works and install the new turf. Another process that requires time and planning.
Montjuïc Could Remain Barça's Home for Longer
As delays accumulate, some experts on the project are already considering a pessimistic scenario. Barça might not only finish the season at Montjuïc but might even have to start the next campaign there.
In the worst-case scenario, the return to Spotify Camp Nou could be postponed until October. This would mean that the team would continue playing away from their stadium longer than expected.
The blaugrana board is confident that the summer will be key to accelerating the pending work. But the biggest concern lies in the multitude of permits needed for the reopening.
Works in Advanced Stage but with Technical Problems
According to information published by Relevo, the contractor Limak believes that by May, the works should be at the expected level. However, the real problem lies in the non-visible aspects of the project, such as obtaining licenses and installing electrical systems.
The electrical system of the new stadium is not progressing at the expected pace, which poses another significant inconvenience in the reopening process.
Despite these problems, Barça's board maintains the stance of not rushing and ensuring that the return to Spotify Camp Nou is done under the best conditions.
For now, the return home remains an enigma. Although optimism remains, the delays in the works and bureaucracy have complicated the team's return to the temple more than expected.