Super Eagles fullback Ola Aina has achieved an impressive milestone, winning possession in the defensive third at least 13 more times than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues this season (105) according to WhoScored.
Ola Aina continued his outstanding form on Saturday as Nottingham Forest secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Manchester City, courtesy of Callum Hudson-Odoi’s late goal. Aina played a key role in the winning goal, making a brilliant tackle before Morgan Gibbs-White found Hudson-Odoi with an exceptional switch of play.
Aina’s overall performance was remarkable, completing 93% of his passes, making three clearances, two headed clearances, one interception, and four recoveries. He also won four ground duels, effectively limiting Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku’s impact on the game.
Ola Aina’s consistency has earned him praise from many supporters, who consider him the best right-back in the league this season. His impressive form has attracted interest from clubs in England and Europe while Nottingham Forest face the challenge of extending his contract, which expires at the end of the season.
Qualifying for European football could be a decisive factor in convincing Ola Aina to stay with Nottingham Forest. Currently, the team sit third in the league with 51 points, four points ahead of Manchester City who dropped to fifth after their loss. As such, maintaining their top-four spot will be crucial for Nottingham Forest’s chances of retaining Aina’s services.
Ola Aina will be expected to continue his impressive form for the Super Eagles in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers. Nigeria will face Rwanda on March 21 and host Zimbabwe on March 25 and the 28-year-old will be included in the final squad, which will be announced this week.
In the short term, Ola Aina’s focus will shift to Nottingham Forest’s Premier League clash against Ipswich, as the team seeks to secure another win before the international break.
