Ivan Rakitic Returns to Croatian Football with Hajduk Split

Former international midfielder Ivan Rakitic has signed with Hajduk Split, the club announced late Sunday. This move marks Rakitic’s return to Croatian football after a brief period with Saudi Arabian side Al-Shabab. The contract is set for the upcoming season, with an option to extend for an additional year, highlighting the significant impact his presence is expected to have.

Hajduk Split’s announcement underscored the importance of this signing, presenting Rakitic as “one of the best players in the history of Croatian football.” The 36-year-old’s return is seen as a major boost for Hajduk Split, a club with a rich history and passionate fanbase. The official unveiling of Rakitic will take place at a press conference in Split later tonight, where fans and media will get their first glimpse of the player in his new role.

Rakitic’s career began in Switzerland with Basel, where he first caught the attention of European football. His impressive performances earned him a move to Germany’s Schalke 04, where he continued to develop as a formidable midfielder. However, it was during his time with Sevilla in Spain that Rakitic truly began to make a name for himself. At Sevilla, he was a crucial part of the team that won the UEFA Europa League twice, showcasing his ability to perform on big stages.

His success at Sevilla led to a high-profile transfer to Barcelona, one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe. At Barcelona, Rakitic was instrumental in the team’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League, further solidifying his reputation as one of the top midfielders in the game. His time at Barcelona also included domestic successes, contributing to several La Liga titles and Copa del Rey victories.

On the international stage, Rakitic was a key player for Croatia, earning 106 caps and playing a significant role in the national team’s journey to the final of the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The silver medal won by Croatia in that tournament remains one of the country’s greatest footballing achievements, and Rakitic’s contributions were pivotal to their success.

Rakitic’s recent stint with Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia was short-lived, and he has now decided to return to European football, choosing to join Hajduk Split. This decision marks a significant moment in both Rakitic’s career and for Hajduk Split, as the club seeks to leverage his extensive experience and leadership to enhance their performance in the Croatian league.

The signing of Rakitic is expected to have a profound impact on Hajduk Split, not just in terms of skill and experience but also in terms of inspiring the team and its supporters. His vast experience at both domestic and international levels will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the club as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

As the football community awaits the official presentation of Rakitic, there is palpable excitement about the potential contributions he will make to Hajduk Split. His return to Croatian football is a testament to his enduring quality and a promising development for the club and its fans.