The uncertainty surrounding the return of FC Barcelona to its usual home, Spotify Camp Nou, remains. Initially, a few months ago it was confirmed that they would stay at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys until the end of February, at least until the end of the initial phase of the Champions League, because UEFA rules prohibit changing stadiums during that stage.
Consequently, it was unfeasible for the blue and burgundy team to maintain two venues of such magnitude operational simultaneously. It should be remembered that this involved facing commitments in LaLiga EA Sports and the Copa del Rey at Camp Nou, while the Champions League matches would be played in Montjuïc.
Barcelona would have asked BSM to extend its stay at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys
However, apparently the Barcelona team is considering extending its stay at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys beyond what was planned. According to reports from 'Mundo Deportivo', the Catalan club has requested from the BSM (Barcelona de Serveis Municipals), dependent on the Barcelona City Council, an extension of the current contract that expires on March 31 to continue using the Montjuïc venue until the end of April.
According to the same source, a crucial meeting is expected to take place this week in which Barça will explore the option of extending the use of the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys for an additional month. All this with the expectation of returning to Spotify Camp Nou in May, allowing them to face the last commitments of the 2024-25 season in their historic home, with approximately 60,000 seats available.
What commitments would FC Barcelona face now in Montjuïc?
If the return dates to Spotify Camp Nou are adjusted, FC Barcelona would play more matches at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, in addition to those already confirmed against Valencia CF (01/26) and Deportivo Alavés (02/01).
Additionally, in February they would face Rayo Vallecano (02/16). In March against Real Sociedad (03/02), CA Osasuna (03/09), Girona (03/30). Likewise, in April they could have three more matches, against Real Betis (04/06), Celta de Vigo (04/20), and RCD Mallorca (04/23) if Barcelona de Serveis Municipals approves it.
Now, the commitments for May against Real Madrid (05/11) and Villarreal CF (05/18) are expected to be played at Spotify Camp Nou. Regarding the Copa del Rey, in the case of hypothetical quarter-finals (02/05) and a possible semi-final match (02/26 or 04/02) they would also take place at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
In this regard, as also pointed out in 'MD', apparently there would not be too many problems for FC Barcelona to play hypothetical 'semis' at Spotify Camp Nou, if the round of 16 and quarter-finals are in Montjuïc. The only obligation from UEFA is that the entire group stage is played in the same venue.