RCD Espanyol de Barcelona

RCD Espanyol, officially Reial Club Deportiu Espanyol de Barcelona, is one of Spain's oldest football clubs, founded in 1900 by university students. They play in La Liga and call the RCDE Stadium home, a modern venue in Cornellà de Llobregat with a capacity of around 40,000. The club's blue and white stripes and the parakeet on their crest have made them a beloved underdog in a city dominated by FC Barcelona.

Espanyol has won the Copa del Rey four times, most recently in 2006, and reached the UEFA Cup final in 1988 and 2007, finishing as runners-up both times. Their fierce rivalry with Barcelona, known as the Derbi barceloní, is a highlight of the Spanish football calendar. Despite never winning La Liga, Espanyol has a proud history of competing in Europe and developing talented players.

The club's identity is deeply rooted in Catalan culture, and their fans, called Pericos, are known for unwavering loyalty. Espanyol has faced relegation to the Segunda División several times but always fights to return. With a strong youth academy and a growing global presence, they continue to build on their rich heritage. [edit]

RCD Espanyol was founded in October 1900 by students from the University of Barcelona, originally under the name Sociedad Española de Football. The club quickly became a symbol of Spanish identity in Catalonia, distinct from the region's separatist movements. In 1906, they adopted the name Club Deportiu Espanyol, and in 1912, King Alfonso XIII granted the title 'Real' (Royal), making them Reial Club Deportiu Espanyol.

Early success came in the Copa del Rey, with their first title in 1929. The club played at the Estadi de Sarrià from 1923 to 2009, a beloved ground that witnessed many historic moments. In 1988, Espanyol reached the UEFA Cup final, losing to Bayer Leverkusen on penalties after a dramatic tie. They returned to the final in 2007, but lost to Sevilla.

The move to the RCDE Stadium in 2009 marked a new era, providing modern facilities and increased revenue. However, the club has struggled for consistency, bouncing between La Liga and the Segunda División. Despite these challenges, Espanyol remains a competitive force, known for developing young talent through their academy. [edit]