Rakitic tells Barca he won’t leave

Ivan Rakitic has reportedly informed Barcelona he would not be leaving the club this summer.

The 32-year-old midfielder lost his regular place in the starting XI this season after the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax, and he has often been linked with departure throughout the campaign. The likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Atletico Madrid and his former club Sevilla were named as clubs interested in his services, but he has always maintained that he has no desire to move away from Camp Nou.

As relayed by Marca, Rakitic spoke to Croatian outlet Tportal and reiterated his stance once more, and in a very decisive manner. Apparently, he had a meeting with the relevant people at the club and told them that there was nothing to discuss – he’s not leaving.

The Croatia international admits it’s been difficult for him to start matches on the bench, especially not quite understanding the reasons behind it, but he respects the head coach and his decisions.