Ivan Rakitic takes on new role at former club after ex-Barcelona and Sevilla star announces retirement

Former Barcelona and Sevilla player Rakitic is all set to remain at Hajduk Split as the assistant to new sporting director Goran Vucevic. Rakitic’s decision to retire was not announced by the player, but rather Hajduk manager Gonzalo Garcia, who expressed appreciation for the Croatian following his role in bringing the Spaniard to the club.

"Rakitic is ending his career," the coach told Dnevnika NoveTV. "He is extremely intelligent, has good ideas and understands football very well. He is going through a difficult period now because the transition from the locker room to the suit is not easy. That is, as I say, the dark side of football. But he called me and in a way he is responsible for me being at Hajduk today."

Rakitic, 37, started his career from Basel’s youth setup in Switzerland, and went on to play for the senior team before shifting base to Schalke. Later on, he went on to represent Sevilla in La Liga before Barcelona decided to sign him in 2014. Six years later, he returned to Sevilla before a brief spell at Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab, which was followed by a return to his homeland with Hajduk Split. He recorded two goals and five assists across 39 matches across all competitions.

After bringing his playing career to an end, Rakitic will now start his tenure as a technical staff member at Hajduk Split. He is expected to play a key role in the sporting decisions of the club in the upcoming days.