Abdul Baba Rahman will not be making a return to the Black Stars for the upcoming 2025 Unity Cup in London, despite widespread speculation following his surprise visit to the national team’s camp over the weekend.

The experienced PAOK left-back was spotted near the Black Stars’ training base in West London, leading to rumors of a potential recall. However, Sportsblog247.com can confirm through close sources that Baba Rahman remains unavailable for national team duty and will not feature in Coach Otto Addo’s plans for the mini-tournament.

Baba Rahman, who has been on an extended break from international football, stepped away from the national team following a painful episode during a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Central African Republic. Despite delivering a strong performance on the day, the defender was subjected to harsh verbal abuse by a section of fans at the Baba Yara Stadium—criticism that many in the football community deemed excessive and unjust.

That incident deeply affected the former Chelsea man, prompting him to take a step back from international commitments. Since then, the 30-year-old has focused on his club career with Greek side PAOK, where he has been in solid form and is regarded as one of the most dependable players in their backline.

Though his presence at the Black Stars’ London camp raised hopes among supporters of a possible comeback, those expectations have now been dashed.

Ghana is set to kick off their Unity Cup campaign with a high-profile clash against regional rivals Nigeria on Wednesday, May 28, at the GTech Community Stadium in West London. The winner will face either Trinidad and Tobago or Jamaica in the tournament final scheduled for Saturday.

While Baba Rahman’s absence will certainly be felt, Ghana’s coaching staff is expected to look to younger options as they prepare for a busy international calendar.