Ivan Rakitic talks Barcelona, Xavi, Flick, Pedri, Yamal, Olmo – ‘If he smiles, all of us take pleasure in’

Ivan Rakitic talks Barcelona, Xavi, Flick, Pedri, Yamal, Olmo – ‘If he smiles, all of us take pleasure in’

Former Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic just lately shared his ideas on his time on the membership, expressing a deep sense of affection for the Catalan giants. 

Reflecting on his six years with Barça, Rakitic admitted that regardless of his earlier function at Sevilla, his reference to Barcelona stays robust. 

He fondly recalled his years in Catalonia, stating that the reminiscences and experiences he shared with the membership are one thing he’ll all the time treasure.

“I used to be there for six seasons, and I’ve an excellent affection for Barcelona and the Catalans; we went by rather a lot collectively,” Rakitic remarked, as quoted by SPORT. 

Nevertheless, he was fast to underline his devotion to Sevilla, the place he feels an immense gratitude. “What Sevilla has given me… That doesn’t exist,” he added, highlighting the particular bond he now has along with his present membership.

Reward for Xavi

Rakitic has nothing however admiration for Xavi. (Photograph by Paul Gilham/Getty Photographs)

Throughout his time at Barcelona, Rakitic had the privilege of taking part in alongside Xavi, whom he holds in excessive regard. 

Reflecting on the legendary midfielder’s teaching journey, Rakitic expressed remorse that Xavi had not been given the best circumstances to succeed sooner. 

“I used to be very sorry as a result of Xavi was the right coach. He is aware of the membership higher than anybody and had a transparent footballing philosophy,” Rakitic stated. 

He famous, nevertheless, that Xavi needed to cope with powerful circumstances, however his psychological energy and unwavering perception in his strategies have been key to pushing by the challenges.

“It was not simple, he was in probably the most troublesome second, and he needed to rely on the kids. 

“Thank goodness that there was a man like Xavi, who had that psychological energy. He by no means hesitated. I noticed him for a few years at Barça.”

On Hansi Flick’s Barcelona

Rakitic will get excited after watching the present Barcelona group. (Photograph by Alex Caparros/Getty Photographs)

In distinction, Rakitic additionally spoke warmly about his present Barcelona coach, Hansi Flick. 

“Every single day he’s extra Barça, and we’re going to have a whole lot of enjoyable with the coach,” Rakitic famous, including that Flick’s method is thrilling for the squad. 

He additional praised younger expertise like Pedri, who’s having fun with a spectacular season. 

“Pedri is assured; his legs go their approach, the passes come out, and he will get up and down. 

“Barça wants an excellent Pedri, and I feel he’s having an unbelievable season,” he stated, highlighting the significance of the younger midfielder to the group’s success.

On Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal

Rakitic is an enormous fan of Olmo and Yamal. (Photograph by PIERRE-PHILIPPE MARCOU/AFP by way of Getty Photographs)

Rakitic additionally fondly remembered Dani Olmo, admiring his all-around talents. “I’m an enormous fan of Dani. He’s very full; he can rating, help, and is in all places. When the ball burns for some, it goes to him.” 

Rakitic’s compliments didn’t cease there, as he additionally acknowledged the brilliance of Lamine Yamal. He praised {the teenager}’s footballing intelligence, one thing uncommon at such a younger age, stating, 

“He has distinctive footballing intelligence, and that at his age will not be simple. If he smiles, all of us take pleasure in,” a testomony to Yamal’s infectious spirit and expertise.

Though Rakitic has moved on to a brand new chapter in his profession, his deep reference to Barcelona, its gamers, and the membership’s ethos nonetheless stay robust