Ivan Rakitic Snubs Messi, Names His Favourite Barcelona Player of All Time

• Ivan Rakitic is regarded as one of the most versatile players at Barcelona
• The Croatian linked up with impeccable stars during his time at Camp Nou
• He has named his favourite Barcelona player, snubbing Lionel Messi

Ivan Rakitic has opened up about his all-time favourite Barcelona player, notably omitting club legend Lionel Messi from his list.

Rakitic joined Barcelona from Sevilla for €18 million during the summer of 2014, swiftly establishing himself as a crucial figure in the team's midfield.

Teaming up with Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta, the Croatian icon constituted a formidable midfield trio that played a pivotal role in Barcelona's acquisition of numerous trophies, enhancing the club's illustrious collection.

Throughout his tenure at the club, the central midfielder amassed 310 appearances in various competitions, netting 35 goals and contributing 42 assists.

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His time at Catalunya coincided with the team's triumphs, securing four La Liga titles, four Copas del Rey, a UEFA Champions League trophy, and a FIFA Club World Cup championship.

Rakitic's all-time Barcelona player

Sharing his opinion on whom he believes is his greatest Barcelona player ever, Rakitic came up with quite an extraordinary pick.

"I wanna say, I'm the biggest fan of Neymar. So, Neymar, all the time in my team." Rakitic told the media via Sportskeeda.

However, the 36-year-old confessed that Messi is the best in football history.

"Not above Messi, though?" the Croatian was asked by the hosts.

"He's my favourite player. But of course, Messi is the best. Not only now, in the history of football, for sure," he replied.

In explaining his preference, Rakitic also remarked that Neymar brings a flair to football that resembles dancing.

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During his time at Barcelona, the ex-Sevilla captain seemingly shared a closer bond with Neymar than with either Messi or Suarez—perhaps influencing his selection.

Deulofeu picks Ronladinho ahead of Messi

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that former Barcelona winger Gerard Deulofeu has Ronaldinho Gaucho as the greatest player of all time, ahead of Messi.

Deulofeu is a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy and played 23 games across two stints at the Spotify Camp Nou.

The 28-year-old played together with Messi when he made his first appearance for the senior side in 2011 before being loaned out to Everton two years later.