Joan Laporta: 'Seeing Spotify Camp Nou is like Back to the Future'
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta is a happy man: the return to the Spotify Camp Nou is now almost a reality. This Friday, the first team once again set foot on the pitch of the legendary Barça stadium in an open training session attended by more than 21,000 fans. The event, conceived as a pilot test, marks the first step towards the team’s full return home, even as work continues on the Espai Barça project.
After such a special day, the president shared his impressions, emphasising above all that “the feelings are good and there were no incidents.”
However, he pointed out that it is still necessary “to review everything with all departments and carry out a detailed assessment” before setting a date for the first official match. According to Laporta, “right now, we could host a match with 27,000 spectators,” though the aim is to obtain phase 1B approval soon, which would allow the opening of almost the entire stadium except for the North Goal.
“We’ll do it as soon as possible,” he assured listeners, making it clear that the club is working hard to come home.
Laporta also highlighted the emotional weight of the occasion: “When I entered the Spotify Camp Nou, I relived so many memories from the past. But I also see the present and the future. This is a legacy for future Barça supporters.”
He described the new stadium as “an architectural jewel that will be the best in the world,” and explained that the project is already bearing fruit on all fronts. Despite its modernisation, Laporta believes the new ground “retains the magic of its greatest moments, but with a new soul. It’s like going back to the future.”
Behind the team
Looking to the sporting side of things, Laporta didn’t hide his enthusiasm: “I can already imagine all the games Barça will play here. I can’t wait to feel that we’ve come home.”
The new ground will soon host matches for a squad the president fully trusts: “I’m not worried about the current run of results. These are situations that happen over a season. The coach has very clear ideas. We’re pleased with his work, and I’m sure it will pay off.”
The training session was a complete success, both in terms of the fans’ response and the team’s attitude. “The players and Hansi did really well in front of the supporters. They want to come back, and today they’ve seen that we’re very close.”