Local News
Ola Aina Set For New Nottingham Forest Contract
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo says progress is being made in Nottingham Forest’s efforts to tie Ola Aina down to a new deal.
The full-back has been a key player for the Reds since joining as a free agent in the summer of 2023. However, his current contract is due to expire at the end of this season.
Forest have been in talks with Aina about keeping him at the club as they look to avoid him walking away for nothing in a few months’ time. And Nuno has made it clear he is keen for the Nigeria international to stay put.
“I think things are going well. I am a coach, I give my opinion,” the Portuguese said when asked about Aina’s contract situation.
“We love what Ola is doing. We love him as a player and as a person, but other people in the club take care of those discussions.”
Aina has been a regular starter since his switch to the City Ground and he is a popular member of the dressing room. His presence in a settled back line has been integral amid a strong start to the campaign for the Reds.
“I’m building, the club’s building. Let’s just see what happens in the future.”
Forest have a number of other players whose contracts are also due to expire in the summer as things stand. Striker Chris Wood, centre-back Willy Boly, left-back Harry Toffolo and on-loan defender Jonathan Panzo also have deals set to run out in 2025.
The club are eager to retain the services of Wood but it would not be a surprise if Boly, Toffolo and Panzo move on in the near future. Boly is reportedly of interest to Saudi Arabian side Al Riyadh, who are managed by former Reds boss Sabri Lamouchi.
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World Cup 20269 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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