Ola Aina training with Nottingham Forest after recovering from hamstring injury
Ola Aina is officially back—and both Nottingham Forest and the Super Eagles have every reason to smile.
The Nigerian defender has returned to full training after spending several weeks recovering from a hamstring injury sustained on international duty. For a Forest side battling to escape relegation and a Nigerian team gearing up for AFCON 2025, this is the definition of perfect timing.
Aina suffered the injury in early September during the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifying match against South Africa. After being forced off just 10 minutes into the game, immediate assessments back in England showed he needed surgery to repair the hamstring.
The procedure was successful, and Aina took on an intensive rehab plan at Nottingham Forest’s training centre. According to club sources, the 29-year-old progressed faster than expected—completing every phase without setbacks. His full return to team training this week signals that match fitness is now within reach.
He is likely to be available for selection next month, depending on how he adapts to sharper sessions and full-contact drills.
Forest manager Sean Dyche will welcome Aina’s return with open arms.
Before the injury, Aina was one of Forest’s most consistent performers—strong defensively, quick in transitions, and a reliable outlet on both flanks. With Forest currently fighting to climb out of the relegation zone, adding a player of his quality back into the squad is a huge plus.
Dyche is expected to reintegrate him gradually but quickly, given the club’s urgent need for stability.
From Nigeria’s perspective, this is fantastic news.
Aina missed four important international fixtures, including World Cup playoff matches. His recovery timeline now aligns perfectly with preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, kicking off December 21 in Morocco.
With his experience, versatility, and leadership, Aina is expected to be a key part of the squad as the Super Eagles aim to redeem themselves and mount a serious title challenge.
Stories like this are why fans love the game—resilience, recovery, and return.
Aina’s comeback is also a major talking point in the sports market as clubs, agents, and national teams monitor player fitness ahead of major tournaments. His return strengthens Nigeria’s market visibility and boosts Nottingham Forest’s competitive message as they fight for survival.
For one of the Best Sports Blogs, this is the type of moment we live for—updates that connect club stories to national pride and global football narratives.
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