Barcelona are racing against the clock to secure a stadium for their La Liga fixture against Valencia on 13-14 September.
The Blaugrana’s priority remains playing at Spotify Camp Nou, albeit with a reduced capacity of around 27,000 seats.
While the first stage of redevelopment has received final certification, Barça are still awaiting the green light from the City Council before opening the stadium to supporters.
Barcelona could host Valencia at Estadi Johan Cruyff
In the meantime, Estadi Johan Cruyff has emerged as the strongest alternative, reports SPORT. However, to host a La Liga fixture, the ground requires upgrades to meet competition standards.
The most pressing issue is capacity. La Liga regulations demand a minimum of 15,000 seats for top-flight matches, while the Johan currently holds only 6,000.
Barça have two possible solutions: request an exceptional dispensation from La Liga or install temporary stands for an additional 8,000 spectators.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 10: Players of FC Barcelona pose for a team photograph prior to the Joan Gamper Trophy match between FC Barcelona and Como1907 at Estadi Johan Cruyff on August 10, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
Barcelona could return to Estadi Johan Cruyff (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)
In addition, the stadium is not currently equipped for VAR, meaning the club would need to install the video technology system ahead of the match.
Barcelona must inform La Liga of their intentions soon, but are hopeful the league will approve it as a one-off venue until the Camp Nou is operational.
Barça have until early next week to finalise a solution, but the visit of La Liga representatives to Estadi Johan Cruyff underlines the seriousness of the contingency plan.
Obstacles along the way
Barça’s first approach, to swap the fixture order and play at Mestalla instead, was rejected by La Liga, who argued that the competition rules prohibit reversing the schedule.
The governing body also stressed that no club can start the season with more than three consecutive away games. Flick’s side have already travelled to Son Moix (Mallorca) and the Ciutat de Valencia (Levante) and will visit Vallecas next to face Rayo Vallecano.
Another option considered was Montilivi, the home stadium of Girona, but this was quickly dismissed as the pitch is scheduled for renovation during those dates.
As such, if a return to Camp Nou is ruled out, the Valencia game could now be played at Estadi Johan Cruyff.