By Oriakhi Loveth
Ola Aina Returns to Nottingham Forest Starting Line-Up After Long Injury Layoff
Nottingham, UK Super Eagles defender Ola Aina made a long-awaited return to Nottingham Forest’s starting XI in early January following a hamstring injury sustained during international duty with Nigeria in September 2025.
The setback forced Aina out for several months and required surgery, with initial recovery timelines suggesting he would be sidelined for around three months.
Aina resumed first-team training in December and featured in Forest’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on January 3, marking his first competitive appearance since the injury.
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Forest suffered a 3–1 defeat at Villa Park, but Aina’s inclusion was seen as an important step in bolstering the club’s defensive options.
The 29-year-old has since been involved in subsequent matches, including Forest’s goalless draw with Arsenal at the City Ground on January 17, where he played the full 90 minutes and was at the centre of a late penalty dispute a decision that drew reactions from both camps.
Forest manager Sean Dyche has previously confirmed positive progress in Aina’s recovery and indicated that his return adds depth to a squad fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone.
Aina joined Forest from Torino in 2023 and has been a consistent presence when fit, adding Premier League experience and versatility across the backline.
He remains contracted with the club at the City Ground through the summer of 2028. (Contract detail widely reported in club communications and player profiles.)
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