Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo has expressed hope that Nigerian international Ola Aina could return to action as early as next week, following a spell on the sidelines with a calf injury.
The right-back, who has been a regular presence in Forest’s campaign this season, missed last weekend’s narrow 2-1 loss to Aston Villa and will also be unavailable for the club’s upcoming clash against Everton on Saturday. His absence has been a blow for a side battling for consistency in the Premier League run-in.
Speaking to the media during his pre-match press conference, Nuno provided an update on Aina’s condition, outlining the club’s determination to speed up his recovery.
“For this game, no, unfortunately,” the Portuguese coach confirmed. “But for the next one, we hope. It will be evaluated day by day.”
The manager praised the defender’s commitment during rehabilitation and the club’s medical efforts: “He’s spending I don’t know how many hours at the training center receiving treatment. We’re doing everything we can to get him back as soon as possible.”
Aina, who joined Nottingham Forest last summer, has featured in 30 Premier League matches this season, contributing two goals and offering reliable defensive cover.
His pace and versatility have made him a key part of Nuno’s backline, with the manager often calling on him to play both as a full-back and wing-back on either flank.
The Nigerian’s absence was visibly felt during the Villa defeat, with Forest conceding twice in the first half before mounting a late but ultimately unsuccessful comeback.
With the fight for survival intensifying in the lower half of the table, Forest will be eager to have Aina back in time for the decisive fixtures ahead.
His potential return comes at a crucial moment for the East Midlands club, who are currently navigating a tense end to the season.
Forest’s defensive stability has fluctuated, and Aina’s energy, defensive awareness, and experience are expected to play a pivotal role in helping the team remain competitive.
Despite the injury setback, Aina has remained engaged with the squad throughout his recovery. Club insiders note that the defender has maintained a strong presence around the training ground, a testament to the leadership and professionalism he has brought since his arrival.
Having previously played in Italy’s Serie A with Torino and in the Premier League with Fulham and Chelsea, Aina’s experience at both club and international level continues to be invaluable.
Forest fans will be hoping that the Nigerian can make a swift and full recovery, with the team needing all hands on deck for the final stretch of the season.
With medical staff continuing to monitor his progress daily, Nuno and his team remain cautiously optimistic that Ola Aina will be available for selection in their next outing—an inclusion that could significantly boost their defensive solidity.
