28/05/2026
Rahaman Osman writes:
TEN REASONS why Baba deserves Black Stars return:
The recall of defender Baba Rahman is one of the main talking points ahead of the World Cup. Baba has returned to the Black Stars after talks with coach Carlos Queiroz, who explained his role and how he believes he can help the national team moving forward.
I have to add that his return has been better received than many initially anticipated.
So, without wasting your time, let me give you 10 reasons why Baba Rahman deserves his call-up.
1.The best Ghanaian left-back: Baba Rahman is still Ghana’s best left-back at the age of 31. It may sound surprising, but just look at his numbers in the Greek League, Europa League and Conference League. In the Greek League, he recorded 25 matches, 20 starts, two assists and two goals. In the Europa League, he made 10 appearances, nine starts, scored once and registered one assist. The season before, he played 29 matches, scoring five goals and providing three assists, while also featuring heavily in Europe. No Ghanaian defender, not just full-backs, but defenders in general- has played that volume of games at that level during the same period.
2. Ghana have no clear options: It is fair to say that since Baba stepped away to recover his best form, no left-back has truly made the position their own. A few players have shown glimpses, but none have completely locked down the role. That is why Carlos Queiroz has worked so hard to convince him to return.
3.Playing active football at a high level: If you are going to the World Cup, you need defenders who are competing at the highest possible standard and understand elite-level football. Playing regularly in the Europa League and Conference League gives players experience against strong opposition similar to what they will face at the World Cup. Over the last two years, Baba has played around 20 European matches, a body of work few Ghanaian defenders can match.
4.Among the most experienced players in the squad: This is a relatively new Black Stars team with many fresh faces, but experience is still vital. With injuries to players like Mohammed Salisu and Mohammed Kudus, Ghana cannot afford to rely only on young defenders at a major tournament.
5. Ghana’s duty of responsibility: Baba’s biggest career injuries came while representing the national team. Since taking time away, he has largely stayed injury-free and rediscovered both fitness and form. That suggests focusing on club football helped him recover properly. As a country, Ghana also has a responsibility to show players they will be supported during difficult moments rather than discarded when things become tough.
6.Benefits to Ghana: If Baba Rahman performs well at the World Cup, Ghana will have an experienced left-back for younger players to learn from, both on and off the pitch. After moving to Chelsea, suffering serious injuries and being written off by many, he has fought back impressively.
7. The World Cup is the perfect stage for a comeback: Baba played at the last World Cup and found it difficult at times. Now he returns as a far more experienced player. Every successful team needs players who have “been there and done it” before. Young talent is important, but experienced tournament players are equally valuable.
8. An example for others to commit to Ghana: The way Ghana treats players who suffer injuries or setbacks while representing the country sends an important message. Foreign-born players considering whether to play for the Black Stars will see that Ghana supports its players during difficult times. That could positively influence future recruitment decisions.
9. Disciplined and professional: Baba Rahman is regarded as one of the most disciplined players in the national team setup. He has never been known for causing dressing-room problems or disciplinary issues. His professionalism can also set a positive example for younger members of the squad.
10. Respect the coach’s decision: Baba Rahman is a Ghanaian player, and if the Black Stars coach believes he deserves a place in the squad, that decision should be respected. Everyone will have different opinions on squad selection. If 100 people selected a 23-man squad, there would likely be 100 different lists. Ultimately, the coach carries the responsibility. If the decision works, he will earn praise, and if it fails, he will face the criticism.
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