Ivan Rakitic and Croatia’s World Cup journey
The Sevilla midfielder stepped away from international duty after making 106 appearances and scoring 15 times for Croatia, choosing to concentrate on his club career. This decision marked a turning point for a player who had become a central figure on the national stage and a trusted presence in midfield for his country.
Croatia once again entered the World Cup spotlight in Qatar, carrying the banner of a side that surprised the world by reaching the final in 2018 in Russia. The squad faced the challenge of competing without some of its familiar names, including Ivan Rakitic, who had been a key contributor during the build ups to major tournaments. The questions about his absence resonated with fans as the tournament progressed, especially given the team’s ambitious run in the competition and the continued leadership of players like Luka Modric.
Why did Ivan Rakitic not feature for Croatia at the 2022 World Cup? That question echoed across fan forums and media discussions as Croatia prepared for yet another demanding campaign. The answer lies in a combination of timing and personal choice rather than an ongoing injury. Rakitic had already stepped away from national duty before the tournament began, a decision he publicly announced in September 2020. At that moment he was 32 years old and had already written a remarkable chapter with the national team, including his contributions in the European Championship and World Cup campaigns that shaped a generation of Croatian players.
His international retirement, disclosed by Croatia’s football federation on September 21, signaled the end of an era for the national team. The Sevilla midfielder, who later returned to his club schedule, had decided to end his podium with the national team after more than a century of caps and a goal tally that underscored his value. The shift allowed him to focus fully on his responsibilities with Sevilla and to continue contributing in European competitions with vigor and experience that only a player of his caliber can offer.
Rakitic finished his Croatia journey with a storied resume: 106 official appearances, 15 goals, two European Championships, and two World Cups, including the historic run to the 2018 final in Russia. His partnership with Modric and other teammates left an enduring impression on the team and its supporters, who remember his calm, intelligent play and his ability to influence games in big moments. While his absence from the Qatar squad raised questions, it also highlighted the evolving dynamics of a national team that often blends veteran leadership with a new generation ready to carry the flame forward.
What stands out about World Cup greatness
- France 2018
- Germany 2014
- Spain 2010
- Italy 2006
Votes so far reflect a mix of triumphs and memorable campaigns that shaped how fans remember the World Cup. The discussion around best winning teams continues to spark debates about tactical evolution, squad depth, and the moments that define a campaign. The journey of Croatia in 2018 remains a beacon for teams aiming to punch above their weight on the world stage. The 2022 tournament offered another chapter in a story where experience meets renewal, and where the legacy of players like Rakitic remains a source of pride for Croatian football fans [Goal].
In the end, the Croatian federation celebrated the players who carried the team on their shoulders and helped redefine what a small nation can achieve on football’s biggest stage. The narrative reflects not only the results but the unity, resilience, and shared purpose that define the Croatian football project across generations [Goal].