Yaroslav Rakitskiy debuted for the Ukrainian national football team at age 20 in a 1–0 victory over England on 10 October 2009. A defender known for his passing range and free-kicks, he spent the majority of his career at Shakhtar Donetsk, winning multiple league titles and domestic cups before pursuing opportunities in Russia, Turkey, and later returning to Ukraine.
Early Career at Shakhtar Donetsk
Moving to the first team for the 2009–10 season, Rakitskiy quickly secured a defensive role. He helped Shakhtar win several consecutive Ukrainian Premier League titles and Ukrainian Cup trophies. During this initial tenure, he made 37 appearances in his debut season, scoring twice. His contributions included significant performances in European competitions, notably netting a goal against Barcelona in the 2010–11 Champions League quarter-final.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →International Tenure
Rakitskiy represented Ukraine over 50 times between 2009 and 2018. He participated in UEFA Euro 2012 and UEFA Euro 2016. His international scoring debut occurred against Andorra on 14 October 2009. He faced consistent public scrutiny regarding his refusal to sing the national anthem before matches. Following his 2019 transfer to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he was no longer selected for the national side and officially retired from international duty.
Transfers and Later Years
In January 2019, Rakitskiy signed a 3.5-year contract with Zenit Saint Petersburg. He became a defensive leader for the club but departed by mutual consent on 2 March 2022, shortly after publicly opposing the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Subsequent stints included a spell with Adana Demirspor in Turkey starting July 2022, a return to Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023, and a short period with Chornomorets Odesa in 2025.
Fast facts
- Born: 3 August 1989, Shakhtarske
- Primary Position: Defender
- International Debut: 10 October 2009
- Zenit Saint Petersburg Tenure: 2019–2022
- Adana Demirspor Signing: 23 July 2022
- Final Shakhtar Donetsk Departure: 30 June 2024
- Chornomorets Odesa Debut: 30 March 2025
Questions readers ask
Why did he stop playing for the Ukraine national team?
He was no longer called up following his 2019 move to the Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg, leading to his subsequent retirement from international football.
Did he play in the UEFA European Championships?
Yes, he represented Ukraine at both UEFA Euro 2012 and UEFA Euro 2016.
