Ivan Rakitic, former midfielder for Barcelona, has opened up about Lionel Messi’s profound influence on players during their time together at the club. While Messi’s footballing excellence is undisputed, Rakitic revealed the Argentine star’s impact extended beyond his on-field talent, inspiring teammates and attracting new players to Barcelona through his presence alone.
Rakitic shared that Messi himself was often unaware of how much his personality and leadership influenced others. According to the Croatian, many players joined Barcelona not only because of their affection for the club but because they wanted to play alongside Messi, drawn by the respect and admiration he commanded.
Rakitic expressed this sentiment clearly, stating:
“He didn’t even know the ability he had to impress people with his presence. That’s also the nobility he has. I always told him: ‘Leo, you don’t know what you can do with a gesture to a partner. You can’t imagine it.’” —Ivan Rakitic, Former Barcelona Midfielder
“Many of us are here, of course, because we love Barça, but also because we love being able to be on a team with you,”
During their time at Barcelona, Rakitic played 277 matches alongside Messi, contributing to an average of 2.35 points per game and linking up for 27 combined goals over nearly 18,500 minutes on the pitch together.
Messi’s Ongoing Desire to Return to Barcelona
Despite leaving Barcelona four years ago, Lionel Messi continues to hold hopes of returning someday to the Catalan club where he first established himself as a footballing icon. Messi’s roots at Barcelona run deep, having emerged from the La Masia academy to become the greatest player in the club’s history.
With a record 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 appearances, Messi remains the most prolific and creative figure ever to wear the Blaugrana jersey.
In November 2024, Messi spoke about his future and his family’s longing to return to life in Catalonia, revealing:
“My family and I always think about the possibility of returning to live there one day. My children, my wife and I miss our life there a lot. We miss our friends” —Lionel Messi, Forward
Currently, Messi plays for MLS club Inter Miami, with a contract running through the end of the year. Reports suggest that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is expected to extend his stay there for the foreseeable future, though his emotional connection to Barcelona continues to echo.
The Lasting Legacy of Messi’s Barcelona Influence
Messi’s role in shaping Barcelona extends beyond his record-breaking statistics; his presence created an environment that attracted top talent and fostered camaraderie among teammates. Ivan Rakitic’s reflections highlight how Messi’s influence played a crucial role in building one of the most formidable teams in recent history.
As Messi contemplates his future, the dream of returning to Barcelona remains alive, symbolizing not just a homecoming but a continuation of his deep bond with the club. His impact will undoubtedly influence Barcelona’s story for years to come, as fans and players alike recognize the unique role he plays on and off the field.