Ivan Rakitić returns home

In a sensational move that's set to shake up Croatian football, Ivan Rakitić is poised to join Hajduk Split. The 36-year-old midfielder is leaving Al Shabab after a successful stint in Saudi Arabia, where he enjoyed his time but couldn't resist the lure of returning home.

Rakitić's decision to join Hajduk was heavily influenced by some notable figures at the club. Sporting Director Nikola Kalinić, teammate Ivan Perisić, and head coach Rino Gattuso played pivotal roles in convincing the seasoned midfielder to return to Croatia.

With all documents and paperwork ready, Rakitić is expected to sign a contract that will keep him at Hajduk Split until June 2026. The agreement was reached first with Hajduk's sporting director, Nikola Kalinić, and later confirmed by club president Ivan Bilić.

🚨🇭🇷 Ivan Rakitić to Hajduk Split, here we go! Deal done on two year contract valid until June 2026.

Rakitić leaves Al Shabab despite good time in Saudi as wanted to take chance to play in Croatia.

Kalinic as director, Perisić as teammate, Gattuso as coach made difference. pic.twitter.com/6hbeh14ZNP

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 18, 2024

The final step in Rakitić's move was the completion of paperwork with Al Shabab, which has now been resolved, according to Football Park Tier 1 source, Fabrizio Romano. An official announcement is anticipated by the end of the week, confirming Rakitić as a Hajduk Split player.

In an interesting twist, Rakitić did not demand the high salary he could have secured elsewhere. His contract with Hajduk is considerably lower, with most of his guaranteed earnings covered by a sponsorship deal. Hajduk will only be responsible for a smaller portion of his salary, with bonuses tied to winning trophies or qualifying for the group stages of European competitions.

This move marks a significant moment for Hajduk Split and Croatian football, bringing back one of the nation's most accomplished players to its domestic league. Fans are eagerly awaiting Rakitić's return, hoping his presence will inspire the team to new heights.