After more than two years of playing their home games at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, FC Barcelona is set to make a triumphant return to the Spotify Camp Nou on Saturday, November 22, when they host Athletic Club in a La Liga match. The Catalan club last played at Camp Nou on May 28, 2023, before embarking on an extensive renovation project.

The return marks a significant milestone for the club and its supporters, who have eagerly awaited the reopening of their iconic home. While initial projections estimated completion by the end of 2024, a series of delays pushed the return date to late 2025. An earlier potential return in October was also considered but was ultimately deemed financially unviable due to capacity restrictions of 25,991 at the time.

The stadium will not be fully completed upon reopening, with construction work expected to continue until 2027. The current phase of reopening, labeled Phase 1B, allows for a capacity of 45,401 spectators. The areas open to fans include the entire lateral area, the tribune area, and the south goal area. The club is actively working to secure a Phase 1C license, which would enable the opening of the north goal area. Once fully completed, the new Camp Nou is projected to hold 105,000 fans.

To celebrate the return, Barcelona hosted an open training session for fans earlier this month, drawing approximately 23,000 attendees. The atmosphere surrounding the reopening is one of excitement, as the team and its supporters reunite in their renovated home.

However, there are some concerns regarding Barcelona's upcoming Champions League match against Eintracht Frankfurt on December 9. There is uncertainty if the stadium will be ready to host the match.

Despite the ongoing construction and the partial capacity, the return to Camp Nou represents a significant step forward for FC Barcelona. The modernized stadium promises to offer an improved experience for fans, while still honoring the history and tradition of the iconic ground.