Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman has suggested a potential comeback to the Black Stars but has emphasized that he will only do so once he is fully prepared physically and mentally. At 30, Rahman has chosen a cautious approach, focusing on his health and fitness before rejoining the national team. His last appearance for Ghana was in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Central African Republic in Kumasi, where he faced a challenging moment as some fans expressed their disapproval.
However, Rahman clarified that his decision to step back is not influenced by the reaction of the crowd, but rather by his commitment to ensuring he returns at his best.
Explaining his perspective, Rahman expressed that his recent absence from the national team is a personal choice, one rooted in a desire to regain his fitness. “It’s a personal decision to take a break from Ghana to concentrate on my fitness because I’ve not had a great time with injuries,” he shared with BBC Sport Africa. Over recent years, Rahman has grappled with numerous injuries, a factor that has significantly shaped his approach to his football career. His intention to return to the Black Stars once he feels fully fit reflects his dedication to both his club and country.
The left-back’s journey has been marked by a series of setbacks due to recurring injuries. Between 2017 and 2020, Rahman endured 999 days on the sidelines, a period punctuated by two serious ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears that sidelined him for lengthy recovery stints. These injuries had a lasting impact, pushing him to carefully assess his priorities regarding his professional trajectory.
Despite his determination to contribute to Ghana’s football success, Rahman’s recent focus has shifted toward maintaining his health and performance at the club level. He aims to gradually rebuild his confidence and endurance before making his international return.
Since joining the Greek club PAOK in 2022, Rahman has devoted his energy to club football, a decision he believes was necessary for his career’s long-term prospects. “When I joined PAOK last year, I just thought it was wise to stay away a bit from international football to get my fitness back,” he explained. His rationale stems from the understanding that rushing back into the demanding environment of international competitions could risk further injuries and setbacks.
By focusing on his physical rehabilitation, Rahman is ensuring that his eventual return to the Black Stars is not only impactful but sustainable.
Ghanaian fans, known for their passion and loyalty, have been eager to see Rahman back in the national squad. Their frequent requests for his return reflect his valued status among supporters and the importance of his role within the team. However, Rahman remains resolute in his decision to prioritize his health.
“Fans are asking me all the time to come back to play for Ghana, but I think I need to take care of my health before everything right now,” he said. His statement underlines a shift in his approach to football, where safeguarding his well-being is paramount, a sentiment particularly crucial given his history with injuries.
Rahman’s journey with the Black Stars has had its share of highs and lows, defined by his debut in 2014 and punctuated by participation in key tournaments. He returned for the 2021 AFCON and the 2022 World Cup, yet both events concluded in early exits for Ghana.
These experiences have undoubtedly contributed to his perspective, reminding him of the physical demands and mental resilience required at the international level. For Rahman, stepping back was not an easy decision, as he holds his role with the Black Stars in high regard. Still, his conviction that a healthier version of himself can better serve Ghana underscores his commitment to both personal and team success.
Rahman’s goal to enjoy his club football once again reflects a rejuvenation process essential for his development. After years of battling injuries, he hopes to reclaim the passion and stability that defined his earlier years on the field. “People know about my injury history, and it has really been a difficult few years,” Rahman noted. His candid reflection offers insight into the challenges many professional athletes face, where injuries not only affect physical performance but also mental endurance. In Rahman’s case, his focus on club football is a strategic decision to rediscover his rhythm and rebuild his confidence gradually, one match at a time.
The defender’s situation is a reminder of the pressures athletes encounter when dealing with recurring injuries. The decision to take a break from international duty, though challenging, can be a vital step toward career longevity. Rahman’s approach demonstrates a seasoned athlete’s wisdom, recognizing that health must come first, particularly when considering the rigors of elite competition. By choosing to invest in his fitness at the club level, he is setting the foundation for a more impactful and lasting career, ensuring that when he does return to the Black Stars, he is at his best.
As Rahman continues his journey with PAOK, his contributions to the Greek club serve as a testament to his determination and resilience. His decision to focus on club football is not a departure from his commitment to Ghana but a strategic move aimed at preserving his capabilities for future contributions. When he eventually returns to the Black Stars, Rahman’s experience and perspective will undoubtedly enrich the squad, bringing both technical skill and a renewed appreciation for the game.
For now, the Ghanaian defender’s message to his fans is one of patience and understanding. His career, shaped by both talent and tenacity, reflects a journey familiar to many athletes who face obstacles yet remain dedicated to overcoming them.
Rahman’s dedication to the Black Stars remains unwavering, even as he takes a necessary pause to ensure that his next appearance is marked by full strength and readiness. His story of resilience continues to inspire, embodying the commitment and hope that are at the heart of Ghanaian football.
