Barça's Camp Nou return likely delayed until September 14

FC Barcelona are unlikely to return to Spotify Camp Nou on August 10, despite the club's previous official announcement.

According to reports by Barcelona-based sports newspapers Sport and Mundo Deportivo, the Joan Gamper Trophy may instead take place at the Johan Cruyff Stadium at Barça's training complex.

The club is not expected to receive the required occupancy license from Barcelona City Council in time. 

On Thursday, the council explained it cannot start to decide on granting a license until work at the stadium is concluded.

Barça now views September 14, when they host Valencia in La Liga, as the new target date for reopening the stadium.

Club sources told Sport they see that timeline as "viable," with all necessary permits in place by then.

The club had considered partially opening the stadium for 30,000 to 32,000 spectators, but logistical and regulatory challenges remain, including unfinished work in seating areas and unresolved access issues.

Barça submitted documentation for the occupancy license several days ago, and the council approved modifying the construction works licence, a first step for the return to the stadium.

However, the permit requirements are strict, and the club now sees it as very unlikely that it will receive approval in time, according to Sport.

The delay also affects preparations for the UEFA Champions League, with the first group stage match scheduled for September 16–18 and UEFA regulations requiring the venue to be confirmed in advance.

A final decision from Barcelona City Council is expected by Friday.