Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo provided a hopeful yet cautious update on Super Eagles defender Ola Aina’s fitness ahead of the team’s Premier League match against Brentford on May 1, 2025, at the City Ground. Aina, sidelined for the last four matches across all competitions due to a calf injury sustained during a 1-0 win over Manchester United on April 1, 2025, has returned to training and is nearing full fitness, sparking optimism among fans and the coaching staff.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Nuno confirmed that Aina’s availability for the 7:30 p.m. kick-off remains uncertain, with a final decision pending further assessments. “We still have one more day, assessing all the players, trying to make the decisions,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of Aina’s potential return. “We have been missing Ola, especially because of the stability of the back four we had and the routines.” The 28-year-old’s absence, alongside injuries to players like Chris Wood and Anthony Elanga, has tested Forest’s squad depth, particularly after a physically demanding 2-0 FA Cup semi-final loss to Manchester City on April 27, 2025, where several players, including Morgan Gibbs-White, suffered cramps.
Aina’s potential return is critical for Forest, who are third in the Premier League and chasing Champions League qualification with five games remaining. His versatility as a right-back and wing-back, demonstrated in a 2-0 win over Brentford in December 2024 where he scored, has been vital to Nuno’s tactical setup, which often employs a mid-block and rapid counter-attacks. Nuno’s comments reflect the squad’s reliance on Aina’s defensive stability and attacking contributions, with the manager noting, “All the players who have been out are important to us.” The return of Neco Williams and Ryan Yates from suspension offers additional options, but Aina’s presence could solidify the backline against a Brentford side known for its direct play.
Despite the injury setback, Aina’s impact this season has drawn interest from clubs like Juventus and AS Roma, with Forest keen to extend his contract, set to expire in summer 2025. Nuno’s focus, however, remains on the immediate challenge, describing the Brentford clash as part of the “biggest games of our careers” in their quest for European football. Fans are hopeful that Aina, spotted with the squad at Wembley, can bolster Forest’s push for a historic season.
As Nottingham Forest aim to rebound from their FA Cup disappointment, Aina’s potential comeback could be a game-changer. Supporters are urged to rally behind the Reds, dreaming of a Champions League return not seen since their European Cup triumphs under Brian Clough.
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