Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman has firmly denied reports suggesting he has retired from international football, clarifying that his absence from the Black Stars is only temporary.
The PAOK left-back has not played for the national team since November 2023, when he was booed by fans at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium during Ghana’s final AFCON 2023 qualifier against the Central African Republic.
In an interview with Joy Sports, the former Chelsea player revealed that the hostile reception he received after the match deeply affected him and played a role in his decision to step away. “During the game, I was focused, and it didn’t really get to me. But after the final whistle, walking toward the team bus and still hearing boos, that hit hard,” Rahman admitted. “We had just won, so I expected a bit of support.”
Rahman explained that beyond the emotional toll, he also needed time to recover physically. “I wasn’t fully fit for a while. I needed that time to focus on my health and get back in top shape. The incident at the stadium is behind me now — it’s part of the game, and I hold no grudges.”
The 29-year-old further confirmed he has remained in communication with Black Stars coach Otto Addo and intends to return soon. “God willing, I’ll be back. Every time an international break comes around, it’s just been bad timing with my fitness. But I’m training hard and staying ready.”
Otto Addo has previously expressed hope for Rahman’s return, praising his experience and consistency. Rahman last represented Ghana at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the Black Stars narrowly missed out on progressing to the knockout stage.
