Valverde: Rakitic is a fundamental player and not just because I'm here
The Croatian's been the subject of a lot of speculation recently
Ernesto Valverde once again highlighted the importance of Ivan Rakitic ahead of the Copa del Rey game between Barcelona and Sevilla.
But he was less committed than previously on the Croatian's future at the club: "He's an important player and not just because I'm here, but because in all these years.... but venturing to predict the future is a little risky."
In this sense, the Txingurri insisted that he has no doubts about the player's role in his team: "Ivan's a very important player for us. He's proving that and eh's been proving it for years. There are no doubts in that sense. He's a fundamental player."
Valverde's comments come after a week of speculation about Rakitic's future beyond June. Above all because of the signing of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax.
Questioned on the issue, Rakitic said he wants to stay at Camp Nou and extend his contract. However, asked if De Jong's future could affect his plans, he said that's a question for the coach and the club.
