When Did Rakitic Leave Barcelona?
Ivan Rakitic bid farewell to FC Barcelona on September 1, 2020, marking the end of his six-year stint with the club. The Croatian midfielder’s departure came as a surprise to many fans who had grown accustomed to seeing him in the iconic Blaugrana jersey.
The Journey at Camp Nou
Rakitic joined Barcelona in the summer of 2014 from Sevilla. His arrival at Camp Nou brought immense excitement, as he was seen as a player who could add depth and creativity to the midfield.
During his time at Barcelona, Rakitic became an integral part of the team’s success. He played a crucial role in helping Barcelona secure numerous domestic and international titles, including four La Liga titles and one UEFA Champions League trophy.
The Reasons Behind the Departure
Change in Team Dynamics:
- Rakitic’s departure can be attributed, in part, to the changing dynamics within the team. With new players arriving and younger talents emerging, competition for playing time increased.
- The arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax in 2019 added more competition for midfield positions. De Jong quickly established himself as an important player for Barcelona.
Managerial Changes:
- The departure of former manager Ernesto Valverde and subsequent appointment of Quique Setién brought about tactical changes and differing playing styles.
- Rakitic found it challenging to adapt to Setién’s system, which favored a possession-based approach rather than Valverde’s direct style of play.
New Challenges:
- Rakitic expressed a desire for new challenges and experiences in his career. At the age of 32, he wanted to explore new opportunities before the twilight years of his professional footballing career.
- Returning to Sevilla, where he had previously enjoyed success, presented him with the perfect opportunity to embark on a fresh challenge.
The Return to Sevilla
On September 1, 2020, Rakitic completed his return to Sevilla, signing a four-year contract with the club. The move was met with excitement and joy by both the player and the fans.
A New Chapter Begins:
Rakitic’s return to Sevilla allows him to reunite with familiar faces and relive past glories. He will undoubtedly bring his wealth of experience and leadership qualities to contribute towards Sevilla’s ambitions.
The Legacy Left Behind
Ivan Rakitic will be remembered as an important figure in Barcelona’s recent history. His performances on the pitch and contributions off it have etched his name in the hearts of Barcelona fans worldwide.
During his time at Camp Nou, Rakitic showcased his versatility, composure on the ball, and ability to score crucial goals. His partnership with players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez formed an integral part of Barcelona’s success during that era.
Farewell, Rakitic!
As Ivan Rakitic begins a new chapter in his career, Barcelona fans will forever cherish the memories he created during his time at the club. His professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment will never be forgotten.