Ivan Rakitic incredibly reveals he was ‘very close’ to being caught up in the Barcelona terror attack back in August
Croatian midfielder was on his way downtown before a late change of plan saved him and his family from the incident
IVAN RAKITIC has incredibly revealed he was "very close"; to being caught up in the Barcelona terror attack back in August.
The Croatian midfielder, 29, was on his way downtown before a late change of plan saved him and his family from the incident.
On the horrific day, Rakitic told Goal: "During recent terrorist attack in Barcelona I was very close.
"I went downtown with my family and we prepared to go to that place the attack happened.
"I wanted to go there but my wife said it was a nice day and to let the kids play in the park outside our house.
"Thank God I listened to her.
"We were three or four minutes away from going there.
"And as soon as people heard of the attack, many friends and family started to call me to check how we were."
Meanwhile, gifted cook Rakitic has added he has no interest in opening a restaurant in Barcelona, despite having opened one in Seville.
Rakitic added: "I like to cook, both Croatian and Spanish specialities.
"Yes, I opened a restaurant in Sevilla, but I don't plan to do it in Barcelona, I have no time. But, maybe someday.
"Sometimes we avoid going downtown because FC Barcelona is everything for people here so it is impossible to 'defend yourself' from the fans.
"Photos, autographs... everywhere."
Rakitic opened the Dinain Tapas & Copas restaurant in the south of Spain alongside wife Raquel Mauri - but was forced to close it down, as it was too close to rivals Real Betis' stadium.