5 clubs overshadowed by their city rivals

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Barcelona have always overshadowed their city rivals - Espanyol

#3 RCD Espanyol (Rivals - Barcelona)

Espanyol v Barcelona - La Liga
Espanyol are always trying to compete with Lionel Messi and Barcelona

Barcelona's small neighbours have never, in truth, been anywhere near their famed rivals. The club only have 4 Copa del Rey titles to their name, paling in comparison to their rivals' massive trophy haul. To add insult to injury, Barcelona regard their biggest derby to be the one against Real Madrid, and the city derby isn't treated anywhere near as well.

Politics have defined the differences between the two as well: Espanyol were founded by Spanish citizens and have always mostly stayed out of politics which is in stark contrast to Barcelona who have always proclaimed themselves as a team of Catalonia, in complete favour of Catalan independence.

Gerard Pique's quote is also not entirely untruthful, as the club moved to a new stadium in 2009 which is actually located outside Barcelona itself. Barcelona, then, have the success but also the love of the city; Espanyol will always be a little nuisance that envies their larger rival.

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