Ivan Rakic ends his football career

One of the best Croatian midfielders in history, Ivan Rakic, has officially ended his rich career as a football player.

After his contract with Hajduk expired on July 1st, speculations about his future circulated for weeks, but now it's all clear that Rakitic is withdrawing from professional football.

It's Split's Hajduk coach Gonzalo Garcia, who confirmed the news in an interview with Nova TV.

“Rakitic is finishing his career. He's extremely smart, has a great sense of game and understands football. I admit it, he's one of the main reasons I accepted Hajduk's offer. However, the shift from soccer shoes to a suit is never easy”, said Garcia, reports Telegrafi, broadcast Periscope.

RAKITI RETIREMENT CHONFRIMED!

After months of research, Ivan Rakitı is reportedly including his playing car.

Hajduk coach Gonzalo Garcia confirmed to Nova TV that Rakiti is transforming <x0from a player to a front office role. ”#Rakiti) #Haduk ♪ HNL https://t.co/F1XfkndpSj Pic.twitter. com/ SFl1Wid52c

(@CroatianFooty) Yuly 1, 2025

An exciting farewell to Pollough

A symbolic farewell from the active game took place 19 May, following the match against Rijeka in Pollud. After the last roar, Rakitic remained alone on the bench with eyes fixed on the field and tears in his eyes.

He played a total of 39 matches for Hajduk, marking two goals and providing five assistings. Even though he failed to bring the long-standing champion's title, Rakic left a strong mark as a leader, mentor to young players and the incarnation of professionalism.

Rakic is not saying goodbye to football he's just changing his role. He will remain at the Hajduk sports department, where he will work as assistant to newly appointed sports board member Goran Vucevic. His experience, authority and global contacts will be a major asset to the club's future by Pollud. /Periscope