Ivan Rakitić (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Ivan Rakitić spoke to Spanish television about his new role at Hajduk, his career journey and his enduring bond with Sevilla, admitting he would return immediately if asked.
Spanish television programme El Día Después visited Ivan Rakitić in Split to film a feature on his work at Hajduk. The former Croatia international, now technical director of the Split club, spoke about adapting to his new role, reflected on his career and shared his deep affection for Sevilla.
“I am very proud of everything I have lived through. Not only of what I achieved as a professional, but also of my private life, because football gave me everything. I can only say thank you to it,” Rakitić said.
Asked how he ended up in Split, he replied:
“I came out of love and because of my relationship with my best friend, who is a huge Hajduk supporter. If someone had told me earlier that I would end up here, I would have said it was impossible. But that is the beauty of football — sometimes things happen that you never expect.”
“Honestly, I had no connection with the club or the city. But when I arrived, I realised this was something completely different. There is something special here. When you are here and feel it from the inside, it is easy to become attached.”
First days in a new role
Rakitić also described the uncertainty of his first days at Hajduk.
“On the first day I said to my wife Raquel: ‘What should I wear? I don’t know how things work here.’ Today I have an office, I am part of the sporting structure of the club and I am involved in building the team.”
He also spoke about the influence of Spanish football:
“Spanish football and Spanish players are generally highly respected. A lot of work is done on the basics and it shows,” Rakitić said, adding that the presence of experienced figures helps the wider football environment develop.
“Our home is Sevilla”
Rakitić did not hide his emotions when speaking about Sevilla.
“I miss Sevilla a lot. The city, the club, the people — everything. If they called me now, I would get on a plane tomorrow and come to help in any way.”
“We are very happy here in Croatia, especially in Split, but our home is Sevilla and that will not change,” he concluded.
Rakitić played for Sevilla from 2011 to 2014 and again from 2020 to 2024, making 323 appearances, scoring 51 goals and providing 63 assists, while winning the Europa League twice with the Andalusian club.