The Catalonian derby between Women's Barça and Espanyol is always a special duel, full of emotion and rivalry. After three years, this clash has been relived at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. With Espanyol's return to the top division, the intensity and history between the two teams is renewed.
Interestingly, several Women's Barça's players have previously played for Espanyol, which makes this derby even more special.
Alexia Putellas: from Perica to Queen of Soccer
Current captain of Women's Barça and two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas began her career at Espanyol. At just 11 years old, Alexia signed for the club, where she made her first-team debut at the age of 16.
During her time at Espanyol, she experienced unforgettable moments, including winning the Queen's Cup in 2010.
The midfielder from Mollet del Vallès spent five years at the blue-white club before making the leap into Levante UD Femenino.
A year later, in 2012, she signed for Women's Barça, where she's managed to become one of the best players in the world. Alexia has been essential in the golden era of Barça Women, both nationally and internationally.
Marta Torrejón, the Center-back Who Shines Wherever She Goes
Another player with a deep connection to Espanyol is Marta Torrejón. The central defender was trained in the youth ranks of the blue-white club, where she made her debut in the first team at just 14 years old.
Her leadership and defensive skills led her to become captain of the team, where she played until the 2012-2013 season.
At that time, Torrejón decided to change colors and sign for Barça. Since then, she's been a key player in the Barça defense, and her experience has been vital to consolidate the team at the top of women's soccer. At 34 years old, she continues to be a benchmark on and off the field.
Mapi León and Claudia Pina: Small but Solid Steps
Mapi León and Claudia Pina's time at Espanyol was much shorter, but no less important in their careers. Mapi León, one of the best center-backs in the world, played one season (2013-2014) at Espanyol, during the same time when she was first drafted to the senior national team.
After his time at Espanyol, she signed for Atlético and in 2017 he joined Barcelona, where she standed out the most.
Claudia Pina, one of the great promising stars of women's soccer, played in the Espanyol youth teams in the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons.
At just 10 years old, Pina already stood out for her goalscoring ability. After her brief stint at Espanyol, she joined the Barça youth team, where she has grown as a player and has become a key attacker for the team.