Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman has once again declined a call-up to join the Black Stars, marking the third time he has turned down an invitation to represent his national team.

0

On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Otto Addo revealed the 23-man squad for Ghana's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.

1

Notably absent from the list is Baba Rahman, who has been performing well with his Greek club, PAOK.

2

Otto Addo explained that Rahman’s absence was due to his reluctance to participate, citing unresolved dissatisfaction with the treatment he received from Black Stars supporters during a previous match in Kumasi.

3

“Players have families and friends, and it affects a whole lot of things. They’re all human beings, and there should always be a line.

4

5

I hope that one day Baba will decide to play again [for the Black Stars], but at the moment, he doesn’t want to play,” Addo said.

6

"We would have needed him very much. I had a long talk with him, and I even wanted to fly there, but he was sure he wouldn’t change his mind."

7

Baba Rahman was notably targeted by Black Stars fans during a match in Kumasi in September 2023.

8

During the encounter between Ghana and the Central African Republic, Rahman endured persistent abuse and boos from the supporters.

9

This negative experience has led to Rahman not participating in any subsequent matches for the national team.

10

Looking ahead, Ghana is set to play against Angola on September 6 in Kumasi, followed by another Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Niger just four days later.

11