Ivan Rakitic has officially called time on his professional playing career, concluding his final season at Hajduk Split. The former Barcelona and Sevilla midfielder will remain at the Croatian club in a new capacity, serving as assistant to newly appointed sporting director Goran Vucevic.

Interestingly, Rakitic's retirement wasn’t announced by the player himself but was confirmed by Hajduk Split manager Gonzalo Garcia.

The 37-year-old began his football journey in Switzerland with Basel before moving to Schalke in Germany. He made his La Liga breakthrough with Sevilla and later earned a high-profile move to Barcelona in 2014. 

"Football, you gave me more than I ever dreamed of. You gave me friends, emotions, joy and tears," Rakitic wrote in a letter reflecting on his career on social media.

"Now it's time to say goodbye. Because even if I walk away from you, I know you'll never walk away from me. Thank you, football. For everything."

He was part of Barcelona's treble-winning side in 2015 and twice won the Europa League with Sevilla.

Rakitic had a short spell with Saudi club Al Shabab last year before one final season at Hajduk Split.

Rakitic now embarks on a new chapter off the pitch, bringing his vast experience to the technical team at Hajduk.