Barcelona and Sevilla legend greeted by thousands after picking homecoming over €15m salary
- Seb Sternik
- 22 July 2024
Former Barcelona and Sevilla midfielder Ivan Rakitic was greeted by thousands of Hajduk Split fans after officially signing for the Croatian club.
Rakitic put pen to paper with the club, becoming the most decorated player to have joined the SuperSport HNL – the country’s top tier.
In a statement, the club said: “Ivan Rakitic is a new Hajduk player! He signed a contract with Hajduk until the end of the next season with the option of an additional extension for another season.”
Rakitic spent the bulk of his career in La Liga, making over 600 appearances for Sevilla and Barcelona.
During his time in Spain, Rakitic claimed the Champions League, two Europa League titles, four La Liga crowns and countless other cups and competitions.
📸 Ivan Rakitić on Instagram.
— 🇭🇷 (@TheCroatianLad) July 22, 2024
"What an honor to play in my country, especially for this amazing club. Thank you so much for the warm welcome." pic.twitter.com/CK0B7TkzCt
As well as his club accomplishments, Rakitic has also enjoyed success with the Croatian national team, leading them to a silver medal at the 2018 World Cup.
After ending his time in Spain, Rakitic moved to the Saudi Pro League and joined Al-Shabab where his annual salary was around €15m.
The player made eight appearances for the club, but ultimately decided to follow his heart over money and return home.
After just seven months in Saudi Arabia, Rakitic announced his move to Hajduk Split.
His arrival saw thousands of supporters take to the streets to welcome the Croatian football legend.
