Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed ongoing plans to reunite with club legend Lionel Messi at the Camp Nou when the Blaugrana finally receive a greenlight from the Spanish authorities to reopen the iconic stadium following its reconstruction.
Barcelona still have no fixed date for their return to Camp Nou, which remains under renovation. The club has already shelved plans to host next month’s Joan Gamper Trophy but remain keen on obtaining all the necessary permits before the end of the year.
In an effort to buy more time to secure approval from the city council, Barcelona have requested that UEFA schedule their first Champions League group stage match, due in mid-September, away from home. Their opening three La Liga fixtures have also been confirmed as away games.
Although the full renovation of Camp Nou is not expected to be completed until next summer at the earliest, Barcelona are determined to have Messi present for the eventual reopening, as a tribute to his legendary contribution to the club.
“We have always said that inaugurating the new Spotify Camp Nou with a tribute to Leo Messi would be ideal,” Laporta told Mundo Deportivo.
“I believe the message has reached his family, and there have already been conversations. We would be delighted. It depends on Leo and his family. I hope it happens. It would be very special.”
Messi established himself as arguably the greatest player to ever kick a football during his 17-year stint at Barcelona. In that time, he registered 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 appearances. The mercurial Argentine also won 10 LaLiga titles, 4 Champions Leagues, 3 UEFA Super Cups, 7 Copa del Reys, 3 FIFA Club World Cups and 8 Spanish Super Cups.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
