Baba Rahman and Fatawu Issahaku are anticipated to be absent from Ghana’s final squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Rahman, a consistent presence in Ghana’s major tournaments since the 2015 AFCON, expressed his desire to withdraw from the Ivory Coast-hosted tournament after being initially included in the squad.
The 29-year-old left-back, who faced public criticism during the AFCON qualifier against Central Africa Republic in September, hasn’t been part of the Black Stars since that game.
With Rahman stepping back, Medeama’s Hamidu Abdul Fatawu is expected to be called up as his replacement.
On the other hand, Leicester City’s Fatawu Issahaku, despite his impressive form, is inclined to stay with the Foxes during the AFCON. Issahaku, the 19-year-old winger, is eager to secure seven more appearances for Leicester to make his loan move permanent and contribute to the club’s bid for promotion to the Premier League.
Issahaku, who hasn’t started under Chris Hughton and last featured for Ghana 14 months ago, recognizes the importance of addressing his long-term future at Leicester. Despite being called up twice by Hughton due to injuries, the young winger is prioritizing his tenure at Leicester over the upcoming AFCON.
Chris Hughton is set to reveal the final squad on Monday as Ghana prepares to navigate Group B alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in the AFCON tournament.
