Former Croatia international Ivan Rakitic has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 37.
Rakitic, best known for his successful spells with Barcelona and Sevilla, confirmed the decision in an emotional message shared on social media on Monday.
“Football, you gave me more than I ever dreamed of. You gave me friends, emotions, joy and tears,” he wrote. “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 began his senior career with Swiss side Basel before moving to Bundesliga club Schalke 04. He later found success in Spain, winning multiple major honours with both Sevilla and Barcelona.
He was part of Barcelona’s 2014–15 treble-winning team under Luis Enrique and lifted the Europa League trophy twice with Sevilla. Rakitic also played a key role in Croatia’s run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, where they were beaten by France. He earned 106 caps for his country.
After a brief stint with Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab in 2023, Rakitic spent his final professional season with Croatian club Hajduk Split.
The midfielder retires as one of Croatia’s most decorated players, leaving behind a legacy marked by technical brilliance, leadership, and a deep passion for the game.