Ivan Rakitic Announces His Retirement From Professional Football At Age 37

Ivan Rakitic has decided to retire from professional football at 37. The Croatian midfielder's career spanned several clubs, including FC Basel, Schalke, Sevilla, Barcelona, Al-Shabab, and finally Hajduk Split. Rakitic spent most of his career in Spain, enjoying two stints with Sevilla and six years with Barcelona. During his time with the Blaugrana, he secured 13 trophies, including four LaLiga titles and a Champions League.

In LaLiga, Rakitic played 438 matches, winning 251 of them. He also scored 61 goals and provided 67 assists. With Sevilla, he lifted two Europa League trophies. His international career was equally impressive; he made 106 appearances for Croatia and was instrumental in their journey to the 2018 World Cup final. Reflecting on his career, Rakitic expressed gratitude for the experiences football gave him.

"Football, you gave me more than I could ever imagine," he shared on social media. "You gave me victories, defeats, lessons and friends for life. You gave me a unique path and a thousand stories to tell." His heartfelt message continued: "You gave me a beautiful family and moments that I will carry forever in my heart."

Rakitic's bond with Sevilla was profound. He described it as finding a second home where he met the love of his life and celebrated the birth of his daughter. "We cried together and celebrated with passion," he said about his time there. For him, Sevilla is eternal.

Barcelona held a special place in Rakitic's heart as well. "Barcelona gave me everything," he stated. It was the club of his dreams where he achieved all his goals alongside some of the world's best players. Winning everything as a team was a dream come true for him.

Croatia's Historic Journey

Rakitic cherished his time with Croatia's national team too. From their first match together in 2007 to reaching the World Cup Final in 2018, they made millions proud of their heritage. "Sharing a dressing room with my national teammates has been one of the greatest gifts of my career," he noted.

As Rakitic steps away from playing professionally, he looks forward to experiencing football from different perspectives—whether from the stands or elsewhere life leads him—with an always grateful heart.