1. Ivan Rakitić Retires and Begins New Chapter at Hajduk Split
A Legendary Career Comes Full Circle:
Ivan Rakitić, widely regarded as one of the most elegant and intelligent midfielders of his generation, has officially hung up his boots at the age of 37. After a storied career spanning nearly two decades, Rakitić has chosen to end his playing days in his homeland, with Hajduk Split — one of Croatia’s most historic football clubs.
His decision to retire was announced by Hajduk manager Gonzalo Garcia, who highlighted Rakitić’s exceptional understanding of the game. Garcia also revealed that the veteran midfielder played a significant role in convincing him to join Hajduk, underscoring the respect and influence Rakitić commands off the pitch.
From Basel to Barcelona: A Career of Excellence
Rakitić’s career is a testament to consistency, adaptability, and success at the highest levels of football. He began professionally at FC Basel before making a name for himself in the Bundesliga with Schalke 04. He then flourished at Sevilla, where his performances earned him a high-profile transfer to FC Barcelona in 2014.
At Barcelona, Rakitić reached the peak of his career. Under the management of Luis Enrique, he became an integral part of a midfield trio with Andrés Iniesta and Sergio Busquets, helping the team win the historic treble in 2014–15, including the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. He also scored in the Champions League final against Juventus — a crowning moment in his career.
Later stints included a return to Sevilla, a move to Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia, and finally, his final chapter at Hajduk Split. Even in his final season, he remained productive, registering 2 goals and 5 assists in 39 appearances — evidence of his enduring quality.
A Strategic Transition into Leadership
Rather than stepping away from the game entirely, Rakitić will now continue contributing to football in a new capacity. He has been appointed as an assistant to Hajduk Split’s new sporting director, Goran Vučević. In this technical role, he is expected to assist in shaping the club’s recruitment, player development, and long-term sporting strategy.
This move is seen as symbolic — not only does it mark the end of one of Croatia’s greatest football careers, but it also represents Rakitić’s commitment to giving back to Croatian football by mentoring the next generation of players and leaders.
2. Sean Dundee Reacts to Liverpool’s Major Signings: Florian Wirtz & Jeremie Frimpong
Liverpool’s Summer Business Earns High Praise
Former Liverpool striker Sean Dundee, who now works as a Bundesliga commentator, has offered glowing remarks on the club’s ambitious transfer activity, particularly the high-profile signings of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen and Jeremie Frimpong, also from Leverkusen.
According to Dundee, Wirtz is a generational talent, and his departure from the Bundesliga is a major loss for the league — one he personally regrets as a Bayern Munich supporter. Despite Bayern’s interest, Wirtz chose Liverpool, a decision that has excited fans and pundits alike.
“He’s not just a technical wizard,” Dundee said. “Wirtz has the vision, football IQ, and maturity beyond his years. He’s someone who could reshape Liverpool’s midfield for the next decade.”
Frimpong: Replacing a Star with Versatility
Dundee also praised Jeremie Frimpong, who arrives at Liverpool amid speculation over Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future or possible positional shift. While Frimpong differs stylistically, his electric pace, tireless work rate, and ability to attack down the flanks make him a powerful addition.
Frimpong has developed into one of Europe’s top wing-backs under Xabi Alonso, and Dundee believes the player’s versatility will be key to Arne Slot’s tactical plans. “He’s more than a right-back — he’s a weapon,” Dundee noted.
Xabi Alonso’s Influence and the Slot Effect
A key factor in both players’ development was their former coach, Xabi Alonso, who is now one of the most in-demand managers in Europe. Under his guidance, both Wirtz and Frimpong flourished at Leverkusen. Dundee emphasized how valuable that elite-level education will be for their transition to the Premier League.
Dundee also pointed out that Arne Slot, Liverpool’s new manager, personally pushed for these signings — a sign that they’ll be central figures in his plans, rather than squad fillers.
Liverpool’s Ambition Reignited
These signings signal that Liverpool is entering a new era, post-Jürgen Klopp, with renewed ambition to challenge for the Premier League and Champions League titles. With Wirtz and Frimpong, the club is investing not just in talent, but in the future of their identity on the pitch — fast, dynamic, and tactically flexible.
