Recent reports across Spain have indicated that Barcelona are set to take on Valencia at Estadi Johan Cruyff.
Although the venue is yet to be made official, it is expected that Barcelona will have no choice but to host the match in a stadium which has a capacity of around 6,000. This is owing to the club failing to gain the necessary license for the return to Camp Nou.
Hosting a game at Johan Cruyff comes with its own challenges, though, with La Liga’s inspection team demanding a number of adjustments.
One of the key requirements was the installation of VAR cameras and a fibre optic system to ensure continued broadcast.
No activity at Estadi Johan Cruyff
These demands suggest Barcelona may have to work around the clock to get the Johan Cruyff Stadium match ready for Sunday’s clash.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 28: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Women's Champions League 2023/24 Quarter Final Leg Two match between FC Barcelona and SK Brann at Estadi Johan Cruyff on March 28, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
Can Barcelona make Johan Cruyff Stadium match-ready by Sunday? (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
However, according to Mundo Deportivo, there is complete silence around the stadium premises, and no real activity is being carried out in the wake of recent news.
Only a handful of workers were seen carrying out their work in the stadium, including one worker installing the iron structures that will support the VAR cameras.
Another worker was seen carrying out light tests around the stadium, while one more was seen performing routine maintenance, though it seemed unrelated to Barcelona’s Valencia game.
It must be remembered that Estadi Johan Cruyff will play host to Barcelona Women’s first game of the season against DUX Logrono on Friday.
Apart from these, there was no notable activity seen in the stadium premises, which suggests Barcelona won’t make any move until it is confirmed that Johan Cruyff Stadium will indeed host the Valencia game this weekend.