Ivan Rakitic Joins Hajduk Split After Al-Shabab Exit

Former Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic has joined Hajduk Split after mutually ending his contract with Al-Shabab. The 36-year-old scored once in eight games for the Saudi club. Rakitic will play his first season in Croatia with an option for an additional year at Hajduk Split.

Former Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic has joined Hajduk Split after mutually ending his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab. The decision came after a six-month stint where the 36-year-old scored one goal in eight appearances, contributing to the team's eighth-place finish with 52 points.

"The club management agreed with the Croatian player Ivan Rakitic to terminate the contractual relationship between the two parties by mutual consent," Al-Shabab posted on the X social media platform. Hajduk Split subsequently announced Rakitic's signing for a season, with an option for an extra year. This marks his first campaign in Croatia.

Rakitic, born in Switzerland, has an impressive international career, having played 106 games for Croatia and scoring 15 goals. Notably, he was instrumental in Croatia's journey to the World Cup final in 2018.

(With inputs from agencies.)