Grand homecoming - Barcelona plan Messi's Camp Nou reunion to reopen stadium

The Camp Nou renovations are a major undertaking, with the stadium's full reopening slated for the 2026-27 season. The tribute is envisioned as both a formal farewell and a celebration of Messi's legendary tenure at Barcelona.

During his time with the club, he made 778 appearances, scored 672 goals, and won 35 trophies. Barcelona views the event as a crucial step in reconnecting with its history, its fans, and potentially showcasing both Messi and rising star Lamine Yamal together.

According to Mundo Deportivo, via Goal, the club aims to make Messi the centrepiece of a special ceremony to mark the stadium's completion.

The event is tentatively scheduled for the summer of 2026, coinciding with the expected installation of the new roof. Currently playing for Inter Miami, Messi is considered the ideal figurehead for this momentous occasion.

Messi last played for Barcelona in May 2021 before joining Paris Saint-Germain. He now plays for Inter Miami, where he helped the club secure its first major title, the 2023 Leagues Cup.

The club will closely monitor the stadium's renovation progress. If the roof installation stays on schedule for summer 2026, the Messi tribute and reopening ceremony will proceed as planned during the 2026-27 season. Any delays will necessitate rescheduling the event to align with the project's final completion.