FC Barcelona has already received permission from LaLiga to play the match corresponding to matchday 4 of the 2025/26 season, against Valencia, at the Estadio Johan Cruyff. This is provided that Spotify Camp Nou does not have the operational licenses for its official reopening.
According to 'Mundo Deportivo', the Ciutat Esportiva pitch needs to complete some uncomplicated adjustments to host the Azulgrana's first home match next Sunday, September 14, starting at 9:00 PM.
LaLiga's requirements to enable the Johan Cruyff Stadium
These include the installation of all necessary cameras for VAR operation, a reliable fiber optic internet connection, and some details regarding the irrigation system. Three aspects that Barça will have no problem solving, as this is the usual home of the women's first team and the reserve team.
The VAR issue will be key, as Barça recently played the matchday 3 fixture in Vallecas (1-1) with serious inconveniences for reviewing plays. The VAR system failed during the first half, due to problems with Mediapro's server and the electricity at Rayo's stadium.
Problems that the Azulgrana cannot allow to happen at the Johan Cruyff. Likewise, the stadium's capacity will not be an issue, although the club considered the possibility of playing behind closed doors against Valencia. This last scenario, only as an alternative for Spotify Camp Nou.
- 👉 You can follow the coverage of the entire LaLiga EA Sports 2025-26 season in detail on FCBN
Barça still doesn't rule out playing at Spotify Camp Nou against Valencia
Beyond LaLiga's 'Ok' to play Barça-Valencia at the Johan Cruyff, the board has until next Monday, September 8, to confirm the official venue for the match. The club expects to deliver the Final Work Certificate (CFO) shortly to process the initial occupancy license, essential to reopen the Stadium with a partial capacity of 27,000 spectators.
However, in case of not receiving the Camp Nou's operational license in time, there is peace of mind knowing they can play at the Johan Cruyff for the fourth league matchday. The league demands a minimum capacity of 8,000 spectators for First Division matches, but will make an exception due to force majeure.
At the Johan Cruyff, the Azulgrana will only be able to host 6,000 spectators against Valencia. The Ciutat Esportiva stadium in Sant Joan Despí already hosted the Joan Gamper Trophy 2025 and would only host the match against the 'ché' team.
From mid-September, the club can return to Montjuïc if Spotify Camp Nou is not yet ready for its opening. The Lluís Companys, in that sense, would be available until the end of February if Barça needs to continue playing there for a third consecutive season.
Date and confirmed schedule: Barcelona vs. Valencia for matchday 4
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🗓️ Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
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🏟️ Where it will be played: to be confirmed
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⏰ Time: 9:00 PM (local time)
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📺 Where to watch on TV: Movistar+