The Croatian international footballer Iván Rakitic is set to play in his home country's league for the first time, having signed a one-season contract with Hajduk Split.
The Croatian international footballer Iván Rakitic will play for the first time in his home country's league, having signed a one-season contract with Hajduk Split, the club announced on its official website this Sunday.
This move marks a significant chapter in Rakitic's illustrious career, bringing him back to his roots after years of playing in some of Europe's top leagues.
Born in Switzerland but of Croatian descent, the 36-year-old midfielder has had an extensive and successful career. He started his professional journey in the Swiss league with Basel, where he showcased his talent early on. His impressive performances earned him a move to the German Bundesliga, where he played for Schalke 04. Rakitic then made a significant impact in La Liga, Spain's top division, playing for Sevilla and later for Barcelona. At Barcelona, he became a key player, contributing to numerous titles and establishing himself as one of the top midfielders in the world.
In January, Rakitic ventured outside of Europe to join Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia. His stint in Saudi Arabia, under the guidance of Portuguese coach Vítor Pereira, was brief, lasting just under six months. Despite the short duration, Rakitic's time at Al Shabab added another layer of experience to his diverse career.
Now, Rakitic has returned to Croatia, signing a one-year contract with Hajduk Split, with an option for an additional year. This move is highly anticipated by fans who are eager to see the seasoned midfielder bring his wealth of experience and skill to the Croatian league.
Internationally, Rakitic has been a stalwart for the Croatian national team. He has earned 106 caps and scored 15 goals for his country. His international career includes appearances in three European Championships (2008, 2012, and 2016) and two World Cups (2014 and 2018). Rakitic played a crucial role in Croatia's remarkable run to the 2018 World Cup final in Russia, where they finished as runners-up to France.
Rakitic's return to Croatian football is not just a homecoming but also a significant addition to Hajduk Split, as the club looks to leverage his experience and leadership. His presence is expected to bolster the team's performance in the domestic league and potentially on the European stage. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Rakitic adapts to his new role and contributes to his new team.
This move also highlights a broader trend of experienced players returning to their roots towards the latter stages of their careers, bringing with them invaluable expertise and often reigniting interest and excitement in their home leagues. For Rakitic, playing in Croatia is a full-circle moment, allowing him to give back to the sport in his homeland while continuing to play at a high level.
