20 Facts About Rcd Espanyol – Barcelona

History of RCD Espanyol

RCD Espanyol, based in Barcelona, has a rich history that spans over a century. This club has seen many ups and downs, making it a fascinating subject for football enthusiasts.

1. Founded in 1900: RCD Espanyol was established on October 28, 1900, by Ángel Rodríguez Ruiz, a student at the University of Barcelona. The club was initially called Sociedad Española de Football.

2. First Stadium: Their first stadium was located in the Sants district of Barcelona. It was a modest ground but served as the club's home for several years.

3. Name Change: In 1910, the club changed its name to Club Deportivo Español. The "Real" (Royal) prefix was added in 1912 when King Alfonso XIII granted the club royal patronage.

Achievements and Milestones

RCD Espanyol has had its share of notable achievements and milestones. These moments have defined the club's legacy in Spanish football.

4. Copa del Rey Victories: Espanyol has won the Copa del Rey four times. Their victories came in 1929, 1940, 2000, and 2006.

5. UEFA Cup Finalists: The club reached the UEFA Cup final twice, in 1988 and 2007. Unfortunately, they lost both times, but these runs remain significant achievements.

6. First La Liga Season: Espanyol was one of the ten founding members of La Liga in 1928. They have spent the majority of their history in Spain's top division.

Stadiums and Facilities

The club's stadiums and facilities have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting its growth and ambition.

7. Estadi de Sarrià: From 1923 to 1997, Espanyol played at the Estadi de Sarrià. This stadium witnessed many memorable moments in the club's history.

8. Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys: After leaving Sarrià, the club temporarily moved to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, which was used for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

9. RCDE Stadium: In 2009, Espanyol moved to their current home, the RCDE Stadium. This modern facility can hold over 40,000 spectators and is located in Cornellà-El Prat.

Club Culture and Rivalries

Espanyol's culture and rivalries play a significant role in its identity. The club has a passionate fan base and intense local rivalries.

10. Derby Rivalry: Espanyol's most famous rivalry is with FC Barcelona. Known as the "Derbi Barceloní," this fixture is one of the most anticipated matches in Spanish football.

11. Supporter Groups: The club has several dedicated supporter groups, with the most famous being the "Curva RCDE." These fans are known for their passionate support during matches.

12. Youth Academy: Espanyol's youth academy, known as "Cantera," has produced several talented players who have gone on to have successful careers in football.

Notable Players

Over the years, many notable players have donned the Espanyol jersey. These players have left a lasting impact on the club.

13. Raúl Tamudo: Tamudo is Espanyol's all-time leading scorer. He scored 129 goals for the club and is considered a legend by the fans.

14. Dani Jarque: The former captain tragically passed away in 2009 at the age of 26. The club retired his number 21 jersey in his honor.

15. Iván de la Peña: Known for his exceptional passing ability, de la Peña was a key player for Espanyol in the late 2000s. His vision and creativity made him a fan favorite.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Espanyol has continued to evolve, both on and off the pitch. These developments highlight the club's ongoing journey.

16. Relegation and Promotion: Espanyol was relegated from La Liga in the 2019-2020 season but bounced back immediately by winning the Segunda División in 2020-2021.

17. Chinese Ownership: In 2016, Chinese businessman Chen Yansheng acquired a majority stake in the club. His investment has helped stabilize Espanyol's finances.

18. Women's Team: Espanyol also has a women's team that competes in the Primera División. The team has been an integral part of the club's commitment to promoting women's football.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about RCD Espanyol that might surprise you.

19. Mascot: The club's mascot is a parakeet named "Perico." The nickname "Periquitos" (parakeets) is often used to refer to Espanyol fans.

20. Colors: Espanyol's traditional colors are blue and white. These colors have been a part of the club's identity since its inception.

Final Whistle

RCD Espanyol's history is packed with fascinating facts that make the club unique. From its founding in 1900 to its passionate fanbase, Espanyol has carved out a significant place in Spanish football. The club's rivalry with FC Barcelona adds an extra layer of excitement to the sport. Espanyol's youth academy has produced some top talent, and their stadium, RCDE Stadium, is a modern marvel. The club's colors, blue and white, symbolize its rich heritage. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious, these facts offer a glimpse into what makes RCD Espanyol special. Keep these tidbits in mind next time you catch a match or chat with fellow football enthusiasts. Espanyol's story is still being written, and who knows what exciting chapters lie ahead?