Barcelona leaning towards Alaves fixture for Camp Nou return for one important reason | OneFootball

Barcelona’s long-awaited return to the newly renovated Spotify Camp Nou is edging closer, and excitement is building among the fans. 

According to a report from Cadena SER (h/t FCB World), while the club had initially considered making their comeback on November 22 against Athletic Bilbao, the internal discussions now suggest that the official reopening is more likely to take place a week later, on November 29, when Barça host Deportivo Alaves.

The timing could not be more symbolic, as the match coincides with Barcelona’s 126th anniversary, and the club is already planning a special post-match celebration to mark both milestones – their return home and their founding date.

Gearing up for a special event

The reopening will see 45,000 fans welcomed into the newly modernised stadium, though notably, fan groups will not be present for this initial event. 

The club plans to make the official announcement next week, following an open training session at the stadium.

Speaking to the media yesterday, club president Joan Laporta offered an optimistic update, suggesting that all systems are ready for the grand return. 

Barcelona are very close to returning to Spotify Camp Nou. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“Everything has been checked and is ready, and now we will conduct a public test to confirm this.

“Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the return will take place on 22 or 29 November,” Laporta explained.

Barcelona are optimistic

Optimism is running high within the club. Construction on the lateral stands has already been completed, and only minor finishing touches remain before the venue can host its first official game. 

Inspections in recent weeks have detected a few minor issues, but those are being swiftly addressed as part of the final preparation phase.

While the clash with Athletic Club remains a possible option, all signs now point to the Alaves fixture on November 29 as the definitive moment when Barcelona will finally walk out again at their historic home.