Former Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic announces retirement at 37 after decorated career

"Football, you gave me more than I ever dreamed of," Rakitic wrote in an emotional statement shared on social media. "You gave me friends, emotions, joy and tears. Now it's time to say goodbye. Because even if I walk away from you, I know you'll never walk away from me. Thank you, football. For everything."

Rakitic retires as one of Croatia's most accomplished midfielders, earning 106 caps for the national team. He was a key figure in Croatia's historic run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, starting in the final against France in Moscow.

At club level, Rakitic made his professional debut with FC Basel before moving to Schalke 04 in Germany. His career reached new heights in Spain, where he spent the majority of his peak years. With Sevilla, he won two UEFA Europa League titles across two spells, and with FC Barcelona, he was a central figure in the team that captured the treble in 2014â-15 - winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.

Known for his vision, technical ability, and tactical intelligence, Rakitic made over 300 appearances for Barcelona between 2014 and 2020, contributing to four La Liga titles and four Copa del Rey victories.

In 2024, he had a brief stint with Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia before returning to Croatia for a final season with Hajduk Split, closing his playing career in his homeland.

Rakitic's retirement marks the end of an era for a player widely respected for his consistency, professionalism, and ability to influence games from midfield. He leaves behind a legacy defined by team success and individual excellence at the highest levels of the sport.

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