Ivan Rakitic, ex Barcelona’s Messi teammate, and one of Croatia’s most talented midfielders, has officially announced his retirement from professional soccer. Hajduk Split’s head coach Gonzalo García confirmed the news in an interview with Nova TV, stating: “Rakitic has ended his career,” finally putting an end to weeks of speculation following the expiration of his contract with the club on July 1. García also credited the veteran midfielder for playing a key role in his arrival at Hajduk: “He’s one of the reasons I’m at the club today.”
The first signs of Rakitic’s farewell came on May 19 during the match against Rijeka. After the final whistle, he remained on the bench alone, visibly emotional. Rakitic—who left a lasting legacy in Spanish soccer with 633 appearances, 86 goals, and 105 assists between Sevilla and Barcelona—was quick to deny retirement rumors at the time: “Thanks for your messages. Emotions are part of football, but I haven’t made any decision or official announcement.”
Although he didn’t win the league title that Hajduk Split so desperately wanted, Rakitic still made an impact in his first season back home, logging 39 matches, 2 goals, and 5 assists. Despite growing up in Switzerland and developing at FC Basel, the midfielder’s return to his homeland resonated deeply with fans. His contract included an option to extend for another season, but both parties ultimately opted for a different path.
Rakitic, however, isn’t stepping away from the game entirely. He will now take on a new role in Hajduk’s front office, working alongside Goran Vucevic in the club’s sporting department. “He’s smart, has great ideas, and understands the game well,” García said. “But it’s a tough moment for him—transitioning from cleats to a suit is never easy.” His international prestige and experience will now be put to use off the pitch.
Rakitic’s career was filled with silverware, including a Swiss Cup, a German Cup, two UEFA Europa League titles, one UEFA Champions League title, one FIFA Club World Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, four La Liga titles, four Copa del Rey trophies, two Spanish Super Cups, and two Catalan Super Cups. Notably, he played alongside Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona from 2014 to 2020, forming part of one of the most dominant squads of the modern era.
