Spotify FC Barcelona fans have already received the news they have been waiting for, as Camp Nou already has a reopening date set after almost three years of construction and renovation. The Spanish club made the announcement just days after Lionel Messi revolutionized the city with a photo taken at the stadium and thrilled the club’s fans.
A throwback photo of Lionel Messi at the new Camp Nou has fans starting to speculate about two big facts. One option is to have the Argentine return to the team, which is virtually impossible, and the other option is to name the new stadium after the world champion, an option that has already been answered by Barcelona’s board.
Messi celebrates couple’s romantic evening in Barcelona
Why Barcelona’s new stadium won’t be named after Messi
Despite requests from Barcelona fans, the board explained that putting Messi’s name on the new Camp Nou was never an option until now.
The club’s vice-president, Elena Fort, gave an interview to Cadena SER’s El Larguero and explained why the new stadium cannot be named after Messi or other historic players. “In Barcelona, we try not to personalize facilities and spaces too much, with some exceptions. It is true that we have the Johan Cruyff Stadium.”
There was also an attempt to name the stadium after its founder, Gamper, but Barcelona fans themselves did not accept it. There are many ways to mourn.
As for Messi, Fort left the door open for a different type of memorial. “What better way to pay tribute to him than by replacing the name of Camp Nou on Spotify with the name of Leo Messi,” he said.
When will Camp Nou return?
Barcelona officially announced their return to the new stadium via social media and will face Athletic Club on Saturday, November 22nd, with a reduced capacity in a crucial match for the Catalans to remain in the title race.
Barcelona City Council has given the green light for 45,401 fans to attend the match against Athletic Club. This is the first official capacity allowed at this stage and symbolizes the gradual return of fans to Spotify’s new Camp Nou.
Barcelona fans are ready to return home and, although they were unable to push Messi’s name, they hope the Argentine will return to his old club and receive the tribute he deserves.
