Barcelona’s focus this summer remains on building for the future, with sporting director Deco pushing ahead with transfer plans despite financial constraints.
Hansi Flick has officially taken charge, with pre-season preparations underway and players reporting back for medicals.
The club continues to explore options to reinforce midfield and attack, with names like Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford being circulated internally.
But as Barcelona look ahead, they’ve also paused to reflect—after one of their former midfielders announced the end of a glittering career.
Former Barca star Ivan Rakitic has officially retired from professional football at the age of 37, bringing an end to a career that spanned more than two decades and left an indelible mark on European football.
The Croatian midfielder, who played 310 matches for Barcelona and scored 36 goals, shared a deeply emotional message on X recounting the unforgettable journey football gave him.
“Dear Football,” the message began, “You have been part of my life since day one.
“From the fields of Mohlin, my hometown in Switzerland, to the biggest stadiums in the world—you were always there.”
He recalled pivotal stages of his journey, including early growth at Schalke 04, his transformation at Sevilla, and of course, his dream spell at Barcelona: “Then came Barca. You made me live a dream I didn’t even dare to imagine.
“I played alongside the best. I lifted trophies. I experienced magical nights at Camp Nou. You gave me the privilege of being part of your history.”
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Ivan Rakitic won 16 trophies during his time at Barcelona, including the Champions League in 2015—where he famously scored in the final—and four La Liga titles.
Barcelona paid tribute with a heartfelt post featuring Rakitic surrounded by his silverware: “Football will miss you, Ivan.
“We wish you all the best in this new chapter of your life.”
Sevilla, another club close to Rakitic’s heart, celebrated his legacy too, highlighting his 323 appearances, 53 goals, 63 assists, and two Europa League wins.
In his message, Rakitic also honoured his final chapter with Hajduk Split: “Returning to my roots, playing for the first time in Croatia… it was an experience I will cherish forever.”
Above all, he expressed pride in representing Croatia: “For a small country like ours, reaching a World Cup final was more than a sporting achievement—it was an eternal moment, a gift for an entire nation.”
“Now it’s time for me to say goodbye,” he concluded.
“Because even if I step away from you, I know you will never leave me. Thank you, football.”
A Barcelona legend says farewell—not just to the pitch, but to an era.
Dear football,
I have a special letter for you: https://t.co/1ck1GFtTBt#rakitic #thankyoufootball pic.twitter.com/FbmO3OFv6m— Ivan Rakitic (@ivanrakitic) July 7, 2025
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