According to Catalunya Radio, European football’s governing body has unofficially granted Barcelona’s request to start the Champions League group stage with an away match. The first round matches will be held from September 16 to 18.
Thus, Barcelona will not play at home in the Champions League until the end of September, which will allow the club to prepare the Camp Nou for the matches of the tournament. On Thursday, UEFA representatives visited the stadium, where renovation work is underway.
It is noted that the teams must hold all home matches of the Champions League group stage at one stadium; thus, Barcelona will have to keep all 4 games of this stage at the Olimpico Luis Compañías, if the Camp Nou is not ready to host them. The club must inform UEFA of the venue for the Champions League matches no later than August 28.
