Ivan Rakitic thanks Sevilla fans ahead of Al Shabab move

Ivan Rakitic has thanked Sevilla fans as he prepares to join Al Shabab.

The Croatia midfielder was at the stadium to see Sevilla face Osasuna on Sunday and was swamped by fans as he left the ground.

Rakitic, who has worn the captain's armband for the last four seasons, leaves after his second spell at the club with the affection and gratitude of the stands.

Rakitic has shared some images on social media from the executive box with a brief message: "Thank you all for the love."

In the snaps he appears with his daughters and at the exit of the stadium he shows his greeting from fans.

Rakitic is the foreigner with the most appearances in Sevilla's history and regarded as one of the best players to have passed through Nervin.