Unai Emery praises Ivan Rakitic

Sevilla boss Unai Emery has claimed that it was "an honour" to manage Ivan Rakitic after the Croatian completed his move to Barcelona.

The 26-year-old officially signed a five-year deal with the Catalan outfit on Monday, but has left with glowing words from Emery.

"It was an honour to coach a player like him," Emery wrote on his personal blog. "He's an example on and off the field. I want to thank Ivan for his commitment, professionalism and Sevillismo. Good luck at Barcelona."

Rakitic is currently with the Croatia squad at the World Cup.