FIFA World Cup 2022 has already started but some popular names are missing from the biggest international football tournament as a result of various reasons. Croatian midfielder, Ivan Rakitic is one of those big players to miss World Cup 2022. Fans want to know the reason why Ivan Rakitic is not playing for Croatia in World Cup 2022.
Croatian star Ivan Rakitic decided to retire from international duty in 2020. His decision of retirement came after 13 years and 106 games. The 33-year-old midfielder withdrew from international soccer soon after leaving Barcelona and signing for fellow La Liga club, Sevilla. He didn’t leave his coach with a choice for Euro 2020.
The retirement decision of Rakitic came after he realised that he would no longer be part of the Croatian national team. Rakitic discussed the decision with national captain Luka Modric, coach Zlatko Dalic and Croatian Football Association president Davor Suker.
Ivan Rakitic made 106 appearances and scored 15 goals for Croatia. The former Barcelona player was an integral part of the Croatia side which reached the 2018 World Cup final in Russia before losing 4-2 to France. He was outstanding in midfield along with Luka Modric for Croatia.
“Saying goodbye to the Croatian national team is the most difficult decision in my career, but I felt that this was the moment when I had to break away and make that decision. I enjoyed every game I played for my homeland, and unforgettable moments from the World Cup will remain among my favourites. I am convinced that we still have a great team with a bright future ahead. I wish my friends and teammates all the luck in the world for the upcoming challenges, and in me they will have the biggest fan.” Ivan Rakitic said after his retirement.
Rakitic joined his former club Sevilla after spending six years with Barcelona.
Ivan Rakitic was born in Switzerland to Croatian parents. He played for Switzerland at youth level but decided to represent Croatia at senior level. Rakitic made his debut for Croatia in 2007 . He represented Croatia at UEFA Euro 2008, UEFA Euro 2012, the 2014 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where he won a runners-up medal.
