Barcelona legend will not be taking the honorary kick-off at the Spotify Camp Nou – report | OneFootball

Saturday is a big day for Barcelona as they gear up for the much-awaited return to Spotify Camp Nou after two and a half years.

While Barcelona will be focused on securing a victory against Athletic Club, the club have also invited some star players of the past to mark the return to the iconic stadium.

Moreover, Barcelona have planned some musical performances to celebrate the grand occasion, with bands like Figa Flawas, The Tyets and singer Cor Jove del Orfeó Català expected to perform.

Furthermore, there will also be a special ceremonial kick-off before the game, with plans being kept secret by the club.

Heading into this game, it was suggested by many that Barcelona legend Ronaldinho could be the one to be bestowed with the honour, as he is not an active player and had built a lasting legacy at Camp Nou.

Ronaldinho not available tomorrow

However, journalist Dani Gil has now clarified that Ronaldinho won’t be attending tomorrow’s Camp Nou re-opening, and thus, will not be the guest taking the special honorary kick-off at the new Camp Nou.

That is because the former Barcelona superstar is currently in Brazil and is not able to make the trip across the Atlantic.

Ronaldinho won’t be present in Barcelona’s game vs Athletic Club. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

While Barcelona had sent him an invitation, Ronaldinho will be represented by his brother, Roberto, at the event.

While this is certainly a blow for Barcelona fans, the club have plans to make the moment special, and there will presumably be other marquee guests attending the event, including former players.

It will be interesting to see if Xavi Hernandez is a part of the guest lineup, considering the Spaniard has recently voiced his support for Victor Font, who is the main competitor for Joan Laporta in the upcoming Barcelona Presidential Election.

However, it must be noted that this event is not political and marks an important stage for Barcelona, as they look to eventually turn Camp Nou into the most state-of-the-art stadium in world football.