Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman has expressed his openness to returning to the Black Stars but emphasized that the timing depends on his readiness. The 30-year-old, who last represented Ghana in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Central African Republic, faced a mixed response from fans in Kumasi, with some jeering his performance.

While some speculated that this reaction led to Rahman’s hiatus, he clarified that his choice to step back from international duty is rooted in his long-standing battle with injuries. Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Rahman explained, “Taking a break was a personal decision to focus on my fitness. I haven’t had an easy journey with injuries, and after joining PAOK last year, I thought it was wise to step away from international football to rebuild my fitness.”

Rahman has endured a difficult few years with injuries, including two ACL tears that kept him sidelined for 999 days from 2017 to 2020. Although he made significant efforts to regain his place, featuring in both the 2021 AFCON and the 2022 World Cup, Ghana’s early exits underscored the challenges he still faced on his path to recovery.

For now, Rahman remains committed to his health, although he recognizes the support and anticipation from fans eager to see him back in the Black Stars squad. “People constantly ask me to return to the national team, but I need to put my health first,” he added. “Once I’m fit, I know I’ll be ready to represent Ghana again and give my best for the team.”