Concerning footage of Barcelona’s renovated Camp Nou has surfaced just weeks before its highly anticipated grand reopening. Renovation work began in June 2023, and when the iconic ground finally welcomes fans back this season, it is set to boast a capacity of around 105,000 - cementing its status as the largest stadium in Europe.
The project, part of Barca’s wider 'Espai Barca redevelopment plan', has promised sweeping upgrades. Supporters can expect a retractable roof, a new VIP ring between the second and third tiers, and a range of sustainability features, including rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and energy-efficient climate control. By the time it’s complete, the revamp is estimated to cost around £778 million. See what the finished project is expected to look like below:
But concerns have now arisen after footage emerged of the stadium struggling to cope with heavy rainfall this week, with water visibly leaking into areas of the concourse. Club sources have circled September 13 or 14 as potential return dates for the Camp Nou, but before then, they face the urgent task of fixing what could prove to be a delaying issue.
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Videos circulating from the latest stages of the Camp Nou redevelopment show scenes that look more like a swimming pool than a football venue, as heavy showers in Catalonia have poured cold water (literally) on Barcelona’s plans to move into their revamped stately home next month. Watch the viral footage below:
As a result of the flooding, Spanish journalist Helena Condis described La Blaugrana’s hopes of hosting Valencia at the new venue on September 14 as “requiring a miracle.” Fortunately, the club’s hierarchy has already explored a fallback plan should the project’s problems persist.
Camp Nou Credit: Barcelona
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have signed an agreement with Barcelona de Serveis Municipals to continue using the Estadi Olímpic Lluis Companys - the temporary home for both the men’s and women’s teams over the past two campaigns. This safety net would allow Hansi Flick’s La Liga-winning side to remain at Montjuic until at least the end of February if needed.