Robert Lewandowski admitted it was a “special” feeling to step back onto the pitch at the Spotify Camp Nou and mark Barcelona’s grand return with the opening goal against Athletic Bilbao.
Barcelona were finally back at their iconic home for the first time in two and a half years, having left the stadium in May 2023 to allow massive renovation work to begin.
Their temporary exile ended on Sunday, and the atmosphere reflected just how much the club and its fans missed the place.
Lewandowski scores first goal of the new Camp Nou era
Lewandowski opened the scoring before Ferran Torres’ brace and Fermin Lopez’s finish capped a dominant 4-0 win over Athletic Bilbao.
Speaking to DAZN after the match, the Polish striker expressed the emotional weight of the occasion, highlighting how special the day was.
“We were returning to Camp Nou, and it was a special day for us. We’re very happy to be able to play here.”
He praised Barcelona’s fast start, noting that the team looked sharp from the opening minutes.
“From the beginning, we played very well, scoring two goals in the first half and another two in the second… the most important thing is that we’re back here. It’s a different experience when we play here.”
Lewandowski said Barca entered the game with full attacking intent, making his early strike even more meaningful.
“It felt special to score the first goal. I’m very proud… When we play at Camp Nou, we’re a slightly stronger team. I’m 37 years old, but for me it was a special day… and I think we can play like today or even better in every game here.”
Limited fans watch Camp Nou return but expansion plans ahead
The Camp Nou is far from finished, with the third tier and new roof still under construction, but that did not stop supporters turning up in numbers.
However, it was a capped attendance of 45,157 that got an opportunity to watch Barca cruise to victory, signalling a new era beginning to take shape.
The club harbours an ambition of getting approval early next year to push the matchday capacity beyond 60,000, before the revamped Camp Nou eventually rises to 105,000 seats, making it the largest stadium in Europe.
FGG Says
The return to Camp Nou feels like a symbolic restart for Barcelona. The atmosphere, the energy, and the sense of identity all came rushing back the moment the players stepped onto the pitch.
Lewandowski’s comments echo what many supporters feel, that this stadium remains central to who Barca are. With the renovations still ongoing, the club now has the chance to build a future that matches its history.