Nottingham Forest and the Nigerian national team have been handed a good news as Ola Aina returns from a long-term injury and is edging closer to full fitness.
The 29-year-old defender was seen training on grass for the first time since undergoing surgery in September, signalling steady progress in his rehabilitation.
Aina suffered a hamstring injury during Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa, an issue severe enough to require surgery and sideline him for several months.
The determined Nigeria International, returns to individual, on-pitch training through positive recovery trajectory, with Nottingham Forest sources indicating he could rejoin full team training in the coming days.
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Forest Looks Forward to Welcoming Ola Aina
For Nottingham Forest, Aina’s imminent comeback offers vital reinforcement.
His versatility at both full-back positions and his experience in top-flight football come at a crucial time as the club navigates a demanding stretch of fixtures.
Aina’s return adds stability and depth to a defensive unit that has struggled with injuries and inconsistency this season.
Super Eagles Set to Benefit Ahead of AFCON 2025
The Super Eagles and Eric Chelle stand to gain even more from Aina’s recovery following his absence in the CAF World Cup Qualifiers Playoff Final against DR Congo.
With Aina unavailable, Benjamin Frederik filled the position, a natural centre-back, as a temporary right-back.
Aina’s well-known mix of athleticism, tactical intelligence, and positional versatility has long made him one of Nigeria’s most reliable defenders.
His potential return ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations could prove pivotal.
Nigeria begin their AFCON campaign on December 23rd against Tunisia, and Chelle’s side will benefit if Aina is declared fully fit in time.
With his recovery progressing smoothly and optimism growing around his return, Ola Aina’s imminent comeback provides a timely morale boost for both Nottingham Forest and the Super Eagles.
As both teams prepare for a critical period, the defender’s return could not be better timed.
