2026 WC: Baba Rahman's return to Black Stars is on merit - Henry Asante Twum

Henry Asante Twum, Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), revealed that Carlos Queiroz played a decisive role in convincing Baba Rahman to return to the senior national team. Rahman had been absent for nearly four years after stepping away from international football following boos from sections of supporters during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the Baba Yara Stadium. Asante Twum insisted the selection was based strictly on merit and backed by the technical leadership. He said, "In the end, it's the decision of the coach (Carlos Queiroz). Was it done on merit? Yes, it was done on merit. Baba (Rahman) had quite a good season. Yes, he's been out of the team for quite some time."

Rahman, who now features for PAOK, has been named in Ghana's provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ahead of Union Berlin defender Derrick Arthur Kohn. Kohn's uncle publicly questioned the decision and suggested irregularities in his nephew's omission. Discussions around Rahman's return began before Queiroz's tenure. Asante Twum added that when Otto (Addo) was around, he wanted him back.

Carlos Queiroz is expected to name Ghana's final 2026 FIFA World Cup squad on June 1, ahead of their international friendly against Wales on June 2 at the Cardiff City Stadium. Ghana will compete at the tournament for the fifth time, having been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia. The Black Stars open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium and concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.