Ivan Rakitic Announces Retirement from Football

Ivan Rakitic, the former midfielder for Barcelona and Croatia, declared his retirement from professional soccer on Monday at the age of 37.

Rakitic revealed his decision through a heartfelt message shared on his Instagram profile.

In his post, he expressed, “Football, you have enriched my life beyond measure.”

He continued, “I am thankful for the victories, the setbacks, the lessons learned, and the lifelong friendships. You charted an exceptional course for me and provided countless stories. You blessed me with a wonderful family and unforgettable moments etched in my heart.”

“Now, the time has come for me to appreciate the game from a different vantage point, to experience it with unwavering enthusiasm and gratitude, whether from the stands, the administrative offices, my home, or wherever life may lead.”

Rakitic’s final club was Hajduk Split in his native Croatia, following a brief period with Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League between 2021 and 2024.

Born in Switzerland to Croatian parents, Rakitic began his professional journey with FC Basel before transferring to the German club Schalke 04 in 2007.

After a four-year stint at Basel, he joined Sevilla in 2011, where he encountered his future wife. Subsequently, he moved to Barcelona in 2014 and enjoyed six successful seasons before returning to Sevilla in 2020 for a second term.

Rakitic secured 13 trophies with Barcelona, which included four LaLiga titles, four Copa del Rey titles, and one Champions League title.

He represented Croatia in 106 matches, scoring 15 goals before retiring from international play in 2019, subsequent to the 2018 World Cup final where Croatia was defeated by France.

Additionally, during his time at Sevilla, he clinched two UEFA Europa League titles.

The Croatian player regarded Sevilla and Barcelona as the most significant clubs in his career.

He stated, “Sevilla became my cherished second home, where I discovered love. My daughter was born there, and I achieved my first major title. We shared tears and celebrated passionately. Sevilla will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

“Barcelona offered me everything I could have hoped for. It is the club of my dreams. There, I accomplished all my ambitions, played alongside the world’s finest players, and achieved collective success.”