Published By: Sports Desk
Last Updated: January 31, 2024, 00:01 IST
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Ivan Rakitic is the newest soccer participant to go away Europe for Saudi Arabia, shifting from Spanish membership Sevilla to Al Shabab.
SEVILLE, Spain: Ivan Rakitic is the newest soccer participant to go away Europe for Saudi Arabia, shifting from Spanish membership Sevilla to Al Shabab.
Sevilla introduced the deal on Tuesday, ending the Croatian’s stint with the membership after 323 appearances over two separate durations.
Financial particulars of the transfer weren’t instantly out there.
It was an emotional farewell for the 35-yr-outdated Rakitic, who performed for Sevilla from 2011-14 earlier than being offered to Barcelona, the place the midfielder stayed till returning in 2020.
“I was born in Switzerland, to a Croatian family, but my home is here in Seville,” he stated. “Now I have to leave, but I’ll be back. It won’t be on the pitch because I’m not getting any younger, but I’m determined to return in some capacity.”
Rakitic is the participant with the second most official appearances within the present Sevilla squad, after Jesús Navas. He is the worldwide participant with essentially the most appearances for the membership, and the one one to have surpassed the 300-sport mark.
Rakitic helped Sevilla win two Europa League titles, in 2014 and 2023.
“Everyone at the club would like to thank Ivan Rakitic, one of the most decorated and loved players in our history, for all his effort and dedication over the years, and wish him every success in the future,” the membership stated in an announcement.
Sevilla is struggling this season and sits simply exterior the relegation zone within the Spanish league. It has just one win in its final 16 league video games and is coming off elimination within the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey.
The membership’s subsequent match is at Rayo Vallecano within the Spanish league on Monday.
”I’ll proceed watching from afar and help the staff by means of this tough season, however I’m positive all the pieces will go easily,” Rakitic stated. “I will wear the shirt in places across the world to show what it means to be a Sevillista. Nothing compares.”
Belgium worldwide Yannick Carrasco, a former Atletico Madrid midfielder, joined Al Shabab final yr.
Many prime gamers have left Europe for profitable offers with Saudi golf equipment, together with Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema.
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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
(This story has not been edited by News18 workers and is revealed from a syndicated information company feed – Associated Press)
