Croatian Midfield Maestro Ivan Rakitić Retires From Football

Ivan Rakitić has retired from professional football. He enjoyed a brilliant career with top European clubs and the Croatian national team.

RAKITIĆ SAYS GOODBYE TO THE GAME

Rakitić‘s retirement was announced on July 7, 2025. He recently played for Hajduk Split after playing for Barcelona, Sevilla, and Al Shabab. His former coach at Hajduk, Gonzalo Garcia, said Rakitić’s decision was final. He called the change from playing to retirement a “difficult period” but praised Rakitić’s intelligence and understanding of football.

AN ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER

Rakitić is one of Croatia’s most successful midfielders. He played 887 club games and won the Champions League, two Europa Leagues, and four La Liga titles. Rakitić also played 106 times for Croatia. He scored 15 goals and helped the team reach the 2018 World Cup final. His club career was impressive, especially at Sevilla—where he won the Europa League—and Barcelona, where he helped win many trophies with his energy and creativity in midfield.

LOOKING AHEAD: NEW ROLE AT HAJDUK SPLIT

Rakitić will stay at Hajduk Split as assistant to new sporting director Goran Vucevic. His football knowledge is expected to help Hajduk as they aim to improve their recent performances. The club finished third in the Croatian league last season, behind the champions, Rijeka and historical rivals Dinamo Zagreb. With Rakitić in a key role, people will be watching to see how he influences Hajduk’s future. The team will start the new season against Osijek, who finished fifth last year.