Ivan Rakitic, ex Barcelona’s Messi teammate, and one of Croatia’s most talented midfielders, has officially announced his retirement from professional soccer.

Axar.az informs according to foriegn media, Hajduk Split’s head coach Gonzalo García confirmed the news in an interview with Nova TV, stating: “Rakitic has ended his career,” finally putting an end to weeks of speculation following the expiration of his contract with the club on July 1.

Rakitic, however, isn’t stepping away from the game entirely. He will now take on a new role in Hajduk’s front office, working alongside Goran Vucevic in the club’s sporting department. “He’s smart, has great ideas, and understands the game well,” García said. “But it’s a tough moment for him—transitioning from cleats to a suit is never easy.” His international prestige and experience will now be put to use off the pitch.

Rakitic’s career was filled with silverware, including a Swiss Cup, a German Cup, two UEFA Europa League titles, one UEFA Champions League title, one FIFA Club World Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, four La Liga titles, four Copa del Rey trophies, two Spanish Super Cups, and two Catalan Super Cups. Notably, he played alongside Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona from 2014 to 2020, forming part of one of the most dominant squads of the modern era.