How Carlos Queiroz convinced Baba Rahman to return after failed attempts by Hughton and Otto Addo

Greece-based left-back Baba Abdul Rahman has made a surprise return to the Black Stars setup after a long absence from the national team, with GFA Communications Director Asante Twum revealing that the decision is purely technical and driven by head coach Carlos Queiroz.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Asante Twum explained that previous attempts by former coaches Chris Hughton and Otto Addo to bring Baba Rahman back into the team were unsuccessful, but Queiroz has now managed to convince the defender to rejoin the squad ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations.

“Baba Rahman's return is a purely technical decision. Previous efforts by Chris Hughton and Otto Addo were unsuccessful, but Carlos Queiroz has now made it happen,” he said.

Rahman had effectively been in international exile after a difficult spell with the national team, including being booed during a Black Stars appearance, which contributed to his decision to step away from international football.

Watch as Carlos Queiroz joins Black Stars camp in Wales

At the time, he reportedly indicated he was not ready to continue with the national team setup.

However, his consistent performances for PAOK in Greece, where he registered 35 appearances with three goals and three assists, have forced a reconsideration from the technical team.

Queiroz, according to Twum played a key role in rebuilding confidence in the left-back, assuring him of his place in the project as Ghana builds towards the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

His return is seen as one of the standout decisions in the 28-man squad named for the Wales friendly and final preparation camp in Cardiff, marking a significant turnaround in his Black Stars career after nearly two years away from the setup.

FKA/JE

'Apologise for benefitting from insults while in opposition' - Maurice Ampaw to President Mahama