There was a real sense of anticipation. An eagerness to see the ball finally rolling again on the pitch of the new Spotify Camp Nou. And, 895 days after the last time it happened, that long wait is over. The open doors training session gave players, coaching staff and the 21,795 culers in the stands their first taste of Barça’s new home. And it was filled with excitement from start to finish.

What a day!

The gates opened at 9:30am, and fans (many of whom had been queuing long before) began streaming in to savour a truly unforgettable morning. Boys and girls, families and friends all shared in a unique, emotional and charitable event, as all proceeds from the €5 entry fee were donated to the FC Barcelona Foundation’s Polseres Blaugranes project.

For the club, the day served as a crucial rehearsal ahead of the team’s official return to competition. For the fans, it was a moment to relive cherished memories and dream of many more to come. After a lively build-up featuring music, dancing and the ever-popular CAT as the day’s special guest, the training session got underway.

Hansi Flick scores first goal

The question of who would score the first goal in the new Spotify Camp Nou was answered quickly. And unexpectedly! Before giving any instructions, Hansi Flick himself struck the opening shot, sending the ball into the back of the net and sparking the first celebration in the new stadium. Over the next hour, the fans sang the Barça anthem and familiar chants that will soon echo once again when the ground hosts its first official matches.

Gifts, autographs and memories

For now, the club has secured its first-phase occupancy licence, allowing 25,991 spectators, and work continues toward phase 1B, which will increase capacity to 45,401. But today was about celebration, and it ended on a perfect note. As training finished, the players delighted the crowd by kicking souvenir balls into the stands, giving a few lucky fans a keepsake to remember this historic day.

Next stop: matchday

Before heading back to the dressing rooms, the players and coaching staff applauded the fans, stayed to sign autographs, and posed for countless photos. The next time they walk onto this pitch, it will be for a match. And that moment is coming very soon.

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