The Croatian ace did not shy away from the controversy that has seen him fall down Valverde's pecking order with Los Culés.

If Ivan Rakitic wanted to change his current situation at Barcelona, he may have chosen the wrong way to do so.

The Croatian midfielder made an apperance in "Universo Valdano", a TV show where former coach Jorge Valdano interviews players from around the world. The interview with the 2015 UEFA Champions League winner with Barcelona left a few talking points, including a fresh dig aimed at Ernesto Valverde.

The footballer questioned why he is being snubbed by the Blaugrana boss when he feels that he is living his best moments as a professional.

"I can understand and even respect our coach's decisions. I have given enough to the team during the past five years and I want to keep enjoying it. I'm 31 years old, not 38, and I feel that I'm in the best shape of my life," Rakitic said.

Even if he respects Valverde's judgement, he cannot hide his feelings when asked about the reasons that have led to his current predicament and how he has reacted.

"Let's put it this way: how does my daughter feel when someone takes away one of her toys? Sad. I feel the same way. They have taken the ball away from me and I feel sad about it," Rakitic added.

The footballer denied that him showing his feelings would cause him further problems inside the club.

"I like to show my feelings. When it's time to cry, I cry. When it's time to celebrate, I can celebrate," Rakitic concluded.

The Croatian player was left out of the squad that played a friendly game today at Cartagena, which adds fuel to the fire surrounding his current situation at Camp Nou.