Ivan Rakitic has admitted that he has never been a close friend of Lionel Messi or Luis Suarez during his time in Barcelona.
The Croatian midfielder ended his six-year stay at Camp Nou this summer and joined his former club, Sevilla.
There have been rumors in the past that Rakitic did not get along well with the Barca attacking duo, but while he has admitted that they did not have a close relationship, he insists he had great respect for both.
“I said mine. I have never had a close friendly relationship with them. I believe it is difficult to have that in a group of 23 or 24 players.” said Rakitic.
“My close friends were Andres Iniesta, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Junior Firpo last season.” said the Croatian.
Rakitic added: “But I respect those two. I had them teammates for six years and they are very important players. I have always had a great time with them and I have great respect for them.”
