Barcelona reopen troubled stand following incident involving Real Madrid star

The restriction lasted just one home fixture, meaning supporters can return to back the team from the stand in Tuesday's Champions League clash against Aston Villa. The club had closed the section behind the goal following incidents during their 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in El Clasico.

La Liga recorded 10 disciplinary breaches during the clash, including a supporter in that section striking midfielder Eduardo Camavinga with a flag after Real's winning goal. Verbal abuse directed at visiting manager Jose Mourinho and defender Marc Cucurella, who came through Barcelona's youth academy, was also reported.

As a result, the "Grada d'Animacio" section was left empty for Saturday's 6-1 league win over Alaves. Barcelona explained the decision by stating the fans' behaviour had harmed the club's reputation and risked financial penalties. However, following a meeting between both parties on Monday, the hierarchy confirmed the stand will reopen for the Villa fixture. "Spokespersons for the groups have pledged that their members will behave decently and respectfully in the stands.

The club appreciates the positive attitude of the fan groups, who play a vital role in getting behind the team during matches. We will closely monitor adherence to this pledge and trust that, with the commitment of everyone involved, this situation will not be repeated," Barcelona said in a statement.

The club had previously been forced to take identical action in November 2024, indefinitely shutting down one of the sections at their temporary home at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium.