Valencia CF has paid an emotional tribute to FC Barcelona with a special video for their last match at the Mestalla stadium. The Che club published the homage on September 6, 2026, recognizing the Blaugrana as the most frequent visiting team at their old ground. The core message of the video, reported by Mundo Deportivo, states: "Sois el rival que más ha jugado en nuestro templo" (You are the rival that has played the most in our temple).
This season is the last one Valencia will play at Mestalla before moving to the Nou Mestalla. Therefore, the club has decided to dedicate a video to each visiting team as a farewell. Barcelona's visit was chosen for one of these tributes, marking what is expected to be the final clash between the two at this historic venue.
Why is Barcelona the special rival?
The relationship between Barcelona and the Mestalla stadium is one of the longest and most frequent in Spanish football. Valencia's video explicitly highlights this fact, granting Barça a unique place in the coliseum's history. This isn't merely a protocol courtesy, but an acknowledgment of decades of encounters that have defined key matches in the championship.
The act comes at a time of great form for Barcelona in the competition. The team leads La Liga with 9 points, from three wins in three games. Their goal record is overwhelming: 12 scored and only 2 conceded, for a +10 difference. This current sporting context, which you can check on our standings page, adds even more value to the gesture of respect between rivals.
How does the current schedule affect Barça?
Valencia's homage arrives amid a positive streak, but also some significant absences in the squad. Frenkie de Jong, Jesse Bisiwu, Roony Bardghji, and Eric García are currently injured and unavailable to the manager. Their status can be followed in the club's injuries section.
Barcelona's next fixture is away against Levante on September 13. The Granotas occupy tenth place in the table. This match will be another test away from Camp Nou for a team looking to maintain its perfect start. The planning for upcoming matches is available on the fixtures calendar.
What does the closure of Mestalla mean?
Valencia's move to the Nou Mestalla will end a historic era in Spanish football. Mestalla has been the stage for countless battles since its inauguration in 1923. Barcelona has been a protagonist in many of them, contributing to the stadium's legend with memorable goals, wins, and defeats.
The homage format, a video dedicated to each visitor, aims to close the cycle with a gesture of sportsmanship towards all rivals. The one dedicated to Barcelona, due to their status as the most recurring opponent, holds special symbolism. It's a recognition of the constant competition and rivalry that has enriched the spectacle on Valencian soil for generations.
The last official Barcelona match at Mestalla is thus marked by a gesture that transcends the sporting result. The Blaugrana face their next challenge against Levante on September 13, aiming to extend their lead at the top of the table.
