Barcelona's Camp Nou Renovation Delays: Laporta Plans Estadi Johan Cruyff Return

Joan Laporta, set to begin his fourth term as Barcelona president this summer, is already laying out his strategic plans. A significant part of these involves addressing the ongoing Camp Nou renovations, which may necessitate a temporary return to the Estadi Johan Cruyff within the next two seasons.

Camp Nou Delays and Temporary Solution

The extensive renovation project at Camp Nou is reportedly 18 months behind schedule, making its completion seem distant. While the stadium's reopening was initially targeted for the start of the current season, Barcelona was forced to play its initial two home matches at the 8,000-capacity Estadi Johan Cruyff due to further delays before moving to Montjuïc. The Estadi Johan Cruyff currently serves as the home ground for Barca Atletic and Barcelona Femeni.

Estadi Johan Cruyff Expansion Proposed

In an interview with RAC1, Laporta indicated that another temporary relocation might be unavoidable in 2027. Although the third tier of Camp Nou is expected to be operational next season, the roof installation will take at least another 18 months. Laporta explained that Barcelona might have to use the Estadi Johan Cruyff again during this critical phase. "The alternative for certain matches while the roof is being installed – starting in the summer of 2027 – is the Johan Cruyff Stadium, for a short period," Laporta stated, as reported by MD. He added, "We want to expand the Johan Cruyff Stadium by 10,000 spectators. The Sant Joan Despi City Council has no objection; we don’t want to go back to Montjuïc."

Financial Outlook

Laporta also highlighted the projected financial benefits once the Camp Nou project is complete. "With the stadium finished, we will reach €450m euros in revenue; currently, we’re at €125m," he noted, emphasizing that early indicators suggest reality is surpassing expectations for the project still in its initial stages.

Laporta Addresses Messi's Departure

Another contentious issue for Laporta's presidential rivals has been his handling of Lionel Messi's departure. While Messi has expressed a desire to play at Camp Nou again, questions remain regarding his willingness to do so under Laporta's presidency, as he and his family reportedly attribute blame to Laporta for his exit. However, Messi refrained from taking a public stance during the recent elections. Laporta commented, "I would be absolutely delighted to sort this out. The priority is finishing the stadium. Economic recovery is fundamental. Regarding the more personal and club-related matters, and the club’s fairness, I’m glad [Messi] didn’t take a position in the elections."

Club Relations and the Negreira Case

Regarding external relations, Laporta confirmed that La Liga President Javier Tebas had extended congratulations. He was less certain about Real Madrid counterpart Florentino Perez but indicated that easing tensions between the two rival clubs remains impossible "while he insists on pursuing the Negreira case." Real Madrid, with Perez at the forefront, has intensified its focus on the Negreira case since Barcelona and Laporta withdrew from the Superleague initiative. Los Blancos are involved as a claimant in the case, where Barcelona faces accusations of sporting corruption, allegations Laporta vehemently denies.