"With the Catalan derby set to light up the weekend at the RCDE Stadium, the rivalry between Barcelona and Espanyol once again takes centre stage. While emotions usually run high when these two sides meet, history shows that a handful of players have worn both shirts, while going through the pressure, pride and expectations that come with crossing the city divide."
"Before becoming one of Barcelona's most expensive signings, Philippe Coutinho first experienced top-level Spanish football at Espanyol. The Brazilian joined Espanyol on loan during the 2011-12 season from Inter, using the move to adapt to La Liga and rediscover his confidence. He played 16 league matches for Espanyol, showing flashes of the creativity and quick feet that would later define his peak years."
"Coutinho's performances caught the eye across Europe and eventually earned him a blockbuster move to Barcelona in January 2018. At Barça, he featured in over 100 matches across all competitions, winning league titles and cups, even if his time at Camp Nou never fully lived up to expectations. Still, his journey remains a rare modern example of a player representing both sides of the Catalan derby."
Barcelona and Espanyol share a fierce local rivalry, with matches carrying heavy emotional and civic significance. A number of players have represented both clubs, navigating pressure and divided loyalties. Joan Garcia moved from Espanyol to Barcelona last summer, a transfer that raises attention ahead of the Catalan derby at the RCDE Stadium. Philippe Coutinho spent the 2011–12 season on loan at Espanyol from Inter, playing 16 league matches and regaining confidence before a high-profile January 2018 move to Barcelona, where he featured in over 100 matches and won domestic titles despite mixed overall impact. Jordi Cruyff, son of Johan Cruyff, made roughly 54 appearances for Barcelona between 1994 and 1996 and later had spells at Manchester United and Celta Vigo.
Read at Barca Universal
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