Sevilla Coach Unai Emery has praised Ivan Rakitic after the midfielder completed his move to Barcelona.
It’s been confirmed Barca will pay an initial €18m for the Croatia international, with Denis Suarez moving in the opposite direction.
Sport report that Emery has posted a message to Rakitic on his personal blog in which he wrote of the experience of working with him at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
“It was an honour to coach a player like him,” Emery revealed. “He’s an example on and off the field.
“I want to thank Ivan for his commitment, professionalism and Sevillismo. Good luck at Barcelona.”
Emery added that while it’s disappointing to lose his captain, it’s the club that matters most of all.
“People leave but Sevilla will always be there,” he said. “The Croatian deserves to be part of history.
“Sevilla are working to find another Rakitic. I want to welcome two young, hungry players, Suarez and Aleix Vidal.”
