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July 06, 2025: Former Croatia worldwide Ivan Rakitic, famed for his memorable spells at Sevilla and Barcelona, formally introduced his retirement from skilled soccer on Monday on the age of 37.
Sharing a heartfelt message on social media, Rakitic mirrored on his journey: “Now it’s time to say goodbye. As a result of even when I stroll away from you, I do know you’ll by no means stroll away from me. Thanks, soccer. For every thing.”
His former golf equipment have been fast to pay tribute. Sevilla, the place Rakitic made 323 appearances with 53 targets and 63 assists, shared a compilation of his most interesting moments on the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium. Rakitic was instrumental within the membership’s two UEFA Europa League titles.
Barcelona additionally honoured the midfielder, posting a photograph of him surrounded by trophies he gained throughout his six-12 months keep. “Soccer will miss you, Ivan. We want you all the most effective on this new chapter of your life,” learn the membership’s tribute.
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Rakitic’s profession started at FC Basel earlier than he moved to Schalke in Germany, however his best successes got here in Spain. With Barcelona, he gained 16 trophies, together with the 2015 UEFA Champions League, the place he scored within the ultimate in opposition to Juventus. Rakitic featured in 310 matches for Barça, scoring 36 targets.
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On the worldwide stage, he earned 106 caps for Croatia and was a key determine of their run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup ultimate, the place they completed runners-as much as France.
Rakitic wrapped up his illustrious profession with temporary spells at Saudi Arabia’s Al Shabab and Croatia’s Hajduk Cut up, closing the chapter on certainly one of trendy soccer’s most constant and profitable midfielders.