Ivan Rakitic incredibly reveals he was ‘very close’ to being caught up in the Barcelona terror attack back in August
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.
Ivan Rakitic has revealed how close he was to being cauight in the terror attacksEPA13 people died and a further 130 injured in the horrific scenes in AugustAFP
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.
Injured people lie on ground on La Ramblas in Barcelona, Spain following terror attack
A van tore through Las Ramblas in Barcelona killing more than a dozen in AugustAP:Associated Press
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"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.
Barcelona and Real Betis players and fans pay their respects to terror attack victims ahead of La Liga match
Ivan Rakitic was saved by a late change of mind from his wifeRex Features
"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.
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