Rakitić has had a remarkable career, which saw him rise from a young talent in Croatia to one of the most respected midfielders in Europe. He began his career at the youth level with Croatian clubs before moving to Swiss football with FC Basel. His talent quickly became evident, and after a few successful years, he made his way to La Liga, signing for Sevilla FC in 2011.
At Sevilla, Rakitić’s skills flourished. He was instrumental in the team’s successes, including winning the UEFA Europa League in 2014. His performances earned him a move to Barcelona in 2014, where he would go on to achieve even greater heights. At Barça, Rakitić won numerous La Liga titles, Copa del Rey trophies, and, notably, the 2015 UEFA Champions League. His dynamic presence in midfield and ability to control the game made him an integral part of Barcelona’s success during his time there.
On the international stage, Rakitić also played a pivotal role for the Croatian national team. Most famously, he helped lead Croatia to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, where the team eventually finished as runners-up. His composed performances in the midfield were essential to Croatia’s remarkable run, and his leadership was a key part of their success.
However, despite these accomplishments, Rakitić’s time at Barcelona was winding down. After the 2020-2021 season, he made the decision to return to Sevilla for a second stint, continuing to impress in La Liga. His time at Sevilla has been more subdued in terms of the silverware he amassed, but his experience and leadership have been invaluable to the club.
A New Chapter: Rakitić to Hajduk Split?
Hajduk Split, a club with a rich history in Croatian football, has long been a symbol of pride for the country. Based in Split, the club is one of the most successful in the country, with a passionate fan base and a tradition of producing and nurturing top football talent. Over the years, Hajduk Split has been the birthplace of many iconic Croatian players, and they’ve played an essential role in the development of football in the country.
A move to Hajduk Split would represent a full-circle moment for Rakitić, who began his career in Croatia before making his name internationally. It’s a heartwarming possibility that would bring Rakitić back to his roots, allowing him to give back to the Croatian football scene in a meaningful way. Hajduk Split has been in need of strengthening their squad, and securing a player of Rakitić’s pedigree would be a major boost, not just for the team but for the entire league.
While the prospect of Rakitić playing in the Croatian domestic league is exciting for Hajduk and Croatian football fans, it also carries with it a mix of emotions. On one hand, there’s a sense of nostalgia and pride in seeing a Croatian legend return home. On the other hand, there’s the underlying sadness that Rakitić’s international career might be winding down, especially as he approaches the later stages of his career.
Why Now? The Timing of the Move
One of the most pressing questions surrounding Rakitić’s potential move to Hajduk Split is the timing. Rakitić is 36 years old and nearing the end of his playing career. He’s played at the highest level for over a decade and has accomplished more than most players could dream of. Yet, there’s something compelling about the idea of a veteran player like Rakitić returning to his roots and giving back to the league that helped shape him.
A move to Hajduk Split could be seen as Rakitić’s way of closing out his playing days in a way that’s meaningful to him and to Croatian football. After years of playing at elite clubs in Spain, it’s possible that Rakitić is seeking a final challenge where he can contribute to his hometown club, possibly helping to revitalize Hajduk Split and leading them to new heights. Additionally, playing in the Croatian league may offer him a different kind of experience, one that is less demanding than the pressures of top European competitions but still allows him to compete at a high level.
Furthermore, the growing trend of older players moving to domestic leagues to wind down their careers might also be a factor. Players like Rakitić, after achieving everything in Europe, often seek a more relaxed environment or an opportunity to help raise the profile of their home country’s league. For Rakitić, a move to Hajduk Split could allow him to enjoy his final years as a player in a more intimate and familiar setting, closer to family and friends.
The Emotional Impact on Croatian Football
A move of this magnitude carries heavy emotional weight. For Hajduk Split fans, the idea of having a player of Rakitić’s stature on their team is a dream come true. Many Croatian fans who grew up watching Rakitić shine for Barcelona or the national team will have an opportunity to see him live in action for their local club. This is an especially poignant moment for those who have followed his career from his early days in Croatia and watched him achieve greatness abroad.
However, for fans of his previous clubs, especially Barcelona and Sevilla, there may be a feeling of sadness mixed with gratitude. Rakitić was an integral part of Barcelona’s midfield during a period of dominance, and his departure was a bittersweet moment for many Catalan supporters. Likewise, Sevilla fans hold a deep respect for Rakitić and his contribution to the club’s successes, and seeing him leave European football altogether may bring a sense of loss. It’s a reminder that all players, even the greats, eventually move on to new chapters.
The Bigger Picture: Croatian Football’s Growing Talent Pool
While Rakitić’s move to Hajduk Split would be a personal and emotional milestone, it also signals something positive for Croatian football as a whole. The Croatian league has historically produced top talent, and players like Luka Modrić, Mario Mandžukić, and, of course, Ivan Rakitić himself, have helped elevate the country’s standing in world football. Seeing Rakitić return to the domestic league is a reminder that Croatian football continues to hold its own, and the presence of such stars only strengthens the development of future generations.
As more top Croatian players, particularly those in the twilight years of their careers, look to play closer to home, the domestic league could see a significant boost in both quality and interest. Rakitić’s move could be the first of many similar transfers, with experienced international players coming back to their roots, fostering the growth of Croatian football both on and off the field.
Conclusion
The possibility of Ivan Rakitić returning to Croatia and signing for Hajduk Split is a significant moment in the world of Croatian football. It represents the full circle of his career, coming back to where it all began and providing an opportunity for him to contribute to the next generation of talent. For fans of Rakitić and Croatian football, this move is a bittersweet reminder that even the greatest careers come to an end. But it’s also a moment to celebrate, as Rakitić’s legacy as one of Croatia’s finest footballers will be remembered long after he hangs up his
