Rakitic reveals how discovering a gluten intolerance boosted his performance LaLiga - Barcelona Talked about the change to his diet

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has attributed his superb season to a change of diet, after he discovered he had a gluten intolerance.

The Croatian was facing problems in post-match recovery as well as stomach issues that affected his on field performances.

"I had a bit of luck, as in an analysis it turned out that I was celiac and I couldn't eat gluten," he told El Pais.

"Many times after games I felt pretty bad, bloated and I wasn't recovering so well.

"I changed several things and I found myself very comfortable and very well throughout the season.

"I completely changed all my diet and I've also started working with people and all that has helped me a lot.

"Since I changed, I recover much better, easier and my stomach doesn't give me any problems."

Last season, Rakitic won a domestic double with Barcelona and on Saturday, at 20:00 CET, aims to knock out Russia and reach the World Cup semi-finals with Croatia.