BARCELONA, Spain — Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic says he has joined Barcelona “to take a step forward” in his career after helping Sevilla win the Europa League last season.
Rakitic said after signing a five-year deal on Tuesday that “the title last year with Sevilla opened a door for me and I hope that this is only the first step.”
Rakitic agreed to join Barcelona last month on his return from the World Cup.
The 26-year-old Croat will help fill the playmaking void left by Cesc Fabregas after his transfer to Chelsea.
He says he has chosen the number 4 jersey to follow in the footsteps of former Barcelona player and coach Pep Guardiola.
Barcelona says Sevilla asked for the financial details of the transfer not to be released.
