Former Barcelona and Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitić has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 37.
Rakitić most recently played for Croatian club Hajduk Split, following a short stint in Saudi Arabia with Al Shabab. Confirming his decision in an emotional social media post, he reflected on a career that spanned nearly two decades and took him across some of Europe’s biggest leagues.
“Football, you gave me more than I could ever imagine,” he wrote.
“You gave me victories, defeats, lessons, and friends for life. You gave me a unique path and a thousand stories to tell. You gave me a beautiful family and moments that I will carry forever in my heart.
Now it is time to enjoy you from another perspective, to live you with the same passion, with an always grateful heart, from the stands, from the offices, from home, or wherever life takes me.”
Born in Switzerland to Croatian parents, Rakitić began his professional career with FC Basel before moving to German side Schalke 04 in 2007. His talent soon led him to Spain, where he joined Sevilla in 2011. It was there he met his future wife and laid the foundation for a storied La Liga career.
In 2014, Rakitić signed with Barcelona, where he enjoyed the most decorated spell of his club career. Over six seasons at Camp Nou, he won 13 major trophies, including four La Liga titles, four Copas del Rey, and the 2015 UEFA Champions League.
He returned to Sevilla in 2020, adding a second Europa League title to his name, having first lifted the trophy with the Andalusian club in 2014.
On the international stage, Rakitić was a key figure for Croatia, earning 106 caps and playing a pivotal role in their historic run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, where they finished runners-up to France. He retired from international duty in 2019.
As he hangs up his boots, Rakitić leaves behind a legacy of elegance, intelligence, and professionalism. These qualities made him one of the finest midfielders of his generation.
