| 1. Ivan Rakitic began his football journey in Switzerland during his childhood. |
| 2. He attended nearby schools to prioritize football and save time. |
| 3. His father and elder brother, both football players, inspired him. |
| 4. At 16, he opted to join FC Basel after trying out for various respected clubs. |
| 5. Switched from Switzerland's youth teams to playing for Croatia's national team. |
| 6. Faced threats for his decision to represent Croatia in football. |
| 7. Throughout his career, he played for clubs like FC Basel, Schalke 04, Sevilla, Barcelona, and Al-Shabab. |
| 8. He married his wife Raquel Mauri in 2013 after a love story. |
| 9. Participated in tournaments like Euro 2012, Euro 2016, and the 2014 FIFA World Cup. |
| 10. Received multiple awards and honors during his successful football career. |
| 11. In 2020, he returned to Sevilla and retired from international football. |
| 12. In 2024, he signed with Al-Shabab for a new chapter in his career. |
| 13. Known for his playing style, versatility in positions, and goal-scoring prowess on the field. |
| 14. He is fluent in six languages, showcasing his linguistic abilities. |
| 15. Apart from football, he also has a passion for wildlife and nature. |
| 16. He retired from professional football and became technical director of Hajduk Split. |
