Nou Camp in turmoil, Barca faces an unprecedented 'disaster'

Barcelona's Nou Camp renovation project unexpectedly confronts the threat of a tuberculosis outbreak, leading local health officials to initiate an emergency inquiry.

As Barcelona rushes to complete the first phase of the £1.25 billion Nou Camp renovation, a serious incident has occurred: a worker on site has been diagnosed with tuberculosis. This was reported by El País, which stated that the Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB) has begun an investigation to determine whether there is an outbreak at the construction site.

The worker reportedly exhibited classic tuberculosis symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. Subsequent medical tests confirmed he was infected with the bacteria causing the disease. According to El País, health authorities have traced 23 close contacts, with three still awaiting test results. The ASPB will only officially declare an outbreak if at least two related cases are confirmed.

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Although it primarily affects the lungs, it can also damage lymph nodes, bones, or the nervous system. Despite its danger, most cases can be cured if treated with antibiotics for about six months. News of tuberculosis at Nou Camp has caused concern among Barcelona fans, especially as the club prepares to hold an open training session welcoming spectators back to the stadium.

Barcelona stated that the upcoming training session has sold out, with a temporary capacity limit of 23,000 people to ensure safety. The club emphasized that this is a technical and operational test before the team officially returns to play at home.

The Nou Camp overhaul project has been repeatedly delayed due to permit and construction issues, forcing Barcelona to temporarily play at the Olympic stadium. When completed in 2026, Nou Camp is expected to increase its capacity to 105,000 seats and add a modern retractable roof.

With a tuberculosis case emerging at the symbol of Catalan football, can Barcelona manage the situation in time to ensure the safety of workers and fans in the coming period?