Former Chelsea left-back Abdul Baba Rahman has opened up about his struggles during his time at the English club, expressing disappointment that his career at Stamford Bridge didn’t go as planned.
Rahman joined Chelsea in 2015 from Bundesliga side Augsburg for an undisclosed fee, but his time with the Blues was marred by injuries and limited opportunities.
August 2015: Chelsea unveil Baba Rahman after his transfer from Augsburg
The Ghanaian defender was eventually loaned out to multiple clubs before settling at Greek side PAOK FC.
During his brief Chelsea career, Rahman made 23 appearances, including four as a substitute, and scored two goals. However, recurring injuries prevented him from fully showcasing his potential.
"I am sad things didn't work out at Chelsea. I just had so many bad injuries whilst I was there, and because I wasn't 100% fit, I wasn't able to give my absolute best," Rahman told the BBC.
The left-back also revealed how close he came to retiring after suffering his second ACL injury but credited Chelsea's medical staff, particularly former medical director Dr. Paco Biosca, for persuading him to persevere.
"I owe them a lot because it was Dr. Paco who convinced me not to retire after my second ACL injury," Rahman shared.
"It had taken me 18 months to come back, and when the doctor told me I had another ACL injury, I decided I had had enough. I told my family I was quitting."
“But Dr. Paco said he had seen other players come back and promised that if I was patient and mentally strong, I could do it too. I slept on it and then decided I wanted to fight for my career."
Rahman is now cherishing his second chance in football with PAOK and remains grateful for the support he received during his lowest moments.
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