-Ivan Rakitić Announces Retirement and Begins New Chapter at Hajduk SplitIvan Rakitić, widely celebrated as one of the most graceful and cerebral midfielders of his era, has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 37.
His departure marks the end of an illustrious playing career that spanned nearly two decades, filled with triumphs at both club and international levels.
Fittingly, Rakitić chose to bring his career full circle by concluding his playing days in his homeland with Hajduk Split, a club steeped in Croatian football history.
The announcement was made public by Hajduk Split’s manager, Gonzalo Garcia, who emphasized Rakitić’s profound understanding of the game and praised the leadership qualities he brought to the team.
Garcia further revealed that Rakitić played a pivotal role in influencing his own decision to join the club, underscoring the deep respect and admiration the former midfielder commands, even off the field.
From Basel to Barcelona: A Journey of Excellence and GloryRakitić’s football journey began in Switzerland, where he made his professional debut for FC Basel.
He soon caught the attention of European scouts and made the move to Germany, where he continued his development with Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga.
His talent blossomed in Spain, particularly during his time with Sevilla FC, where his performances earned him a reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable midfielders.In 2014, Rakitić made a career-defining switch to FC Barcelona.
Under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique, he became an integral part of a legendary midfield trio alongside Andrés Iniesta and Sergio Busquets.
His ability to blend technical elegance with tactical discipline helped the Catalan giants secure an historic treble in the 2014–2015 season, which included triumphs in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Champions League.
Rakitić scored in the Champions League final against Juventus, a goal that remains one of the standout moments of his storied career.
Following his successful spell at Barcelona, he returned to Sevilla, later played in Saudi Arabia with Al-Shabab, and eventually signed with Hajduk Split.
Even in his final professional season, Rakitić remained highly effective, contributing 2 goals and 5 assists in 39 appearances — a testament to his enduring technical quality and football intelligence.
A Seamless Transition to Football LeadershipRakitić has made it clear that although his playing career is now over, his involvement in football is far from finished.
Rather than stepping away from the game, he has taken on a new role off the pitch, joining Hajduk Split’s management team as an assistant to newly appointed sporting director Goran Vučević.
In this role, Rakitić is expected to leverage his extensive experience and footballing insight to assist with talent identification, squad development, and long-term strategic planning.
His move into football administration is viewed not only as a continuation of his legacy but also as a powerful symbol of his dedication to nurturing the next generation of Croatian footballers.
Sean Dundee Applauds Liverpool’s Bold Signings of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie FrimpongFormer Liverpool striker and current Bundesliga pundit Sean Dundee has shared his enthusiastic reaction to Liverpool’s ambitious summer transfer activity, which has seen the club secure two of the Bundesliga’s brightest stars
Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, both from Bayer Leverkusen.Dundee, who now follows German football closely in his commentary work, described the transfers as a massive statement of intent by Liverpool and a significant loss for the Bundesliga.
He acknowledged that, as a supporter of Bayern Munich, it was disappointing to see Wirtz depart the German top flight, especially when his own club was rumored to be interested.
Florian Wirtz: A Generational Talent Set to Lead Liverpool’s MidfieldDundee did not hold back in his praise for Florian Wirtz, describing the 21-year-old as a “generational talent” with the potential to transform Liverpool’s midfield structure for years to come.
He emphasized Wirtz’s technical brilliance, creative flair, and unusually high football intelligence for his age.“He’s much more than a gifted playmaker,” Dundee explained.
“Wirtz combines tactical awareness with composure and maturity. His decision-making and vision on the ball are exceptional, and I believe he has all the tools to become a cornerstone of Liverpool’s midfield for the next decade.”
Jeremie Frimpong: A Dynamic Wing-Back to Match Modern DemandsEqually enthusiastic about Jeremie Frimpong’s arrival, Dundee highlighted the Dutch defender’s pace, energy, and attacking prowess.
With speculation surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future role — potentially moving into midfield — Frimpong’s arrival adds crucial depth and dynamism to the right flank.
Dundee remarked that Frimpong is not merely a full-back, but a highly versatile asset who can contribute significantly in both offensive and defensive transitions. “Frimpong is one of the most exciting wing-backs in Europe,”
Dundee noted. “He doesn’t just defend — he creates, presses, and stretches the opposition.
He’s a real weapon in any system.”The Xabi Alonso Factor and the Vision of Arne SlotBoth players developed their elite-level skills under the tutelage of Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen.
Dundee stressed that Alonso’s influence cannot be overstated, crediting him with instilling tactical discipline and professional maturity in both Wirtz and Frimpong — qualities that will serve them well as they transition to the demands of Premier League football.Dundee also applauded new Liverpool manager Arne Slot for playing a hands-on role in securing these signings.
According to inside reports, Slot made personal efforts to bring Wirtz and Frimpong to Anfield, indicating that they are not just reinforcements, but core components of his vision for a rejuvenated Liverpool.A Clear Signal of Ambition in the Post-Klopp EraLiverpool’s acquisitions of Wirtz and Frimpong represent more than just smart transfers — they are a clear declaration that the club is looking to reassert itself at the top of both English and European football following the departure of legendary manager Jürgen Klopp.
With these two young stars, Liverpool is not only refreshing its squad but also redefining its style: fast, fluid, and future-facing. Fans can now look forward to a new era at Anfield — one built on bold decisions, modern tactics, and world-class potential.-
