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RCD Espanyol Opens a New Academy in China
Espanyol inaugurates an official academy in the city of Jinan, further strengthening its presence in the Chinese market
RCD Espanyol continues to expand its international presence with the opening of a new official academy in Jinan, China. Since 2014, the club has been a pioneer in exporting its training methodology, standing out particularly in the Chinese market, where its Shanghai academy boasts over 500 players and has become a successful model and reference.
With this new opening, Espanyol reinforces its commitment to grassroots football development in Asia, adding its second academy in China. The Jinan academy will operate under the same quality standards that define the Catalan club, incorporating RCD Espanyol’s renowned training methodology, LA21, and offering young talents access to Barcelona-trained coaches, regular visits from the club’s technical staff, and the direct supervision of an official Espanyol director permanently based in the city.
Nicolás Sorabilla, Responsible for International Development, stated: “Our training model has proven successful across different continents, but in China, in particular, we have achieved outstanding results, as reflected by our academy in Shanghai. Each new academy represents more than just expansion—it is a chance to make a lasting impact, to share our philosophy of football, and to build enduring bridges. The opening in Jinan is not only the result of sustained growth but also a renewed commitment to a country that values and enhances our way of working with young players.”