Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a calf injury, with manager Nuno Espirito Santo confirming the Nigerian international will miss several key fixtures.
Aina was forced off during Forest’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Manchester United, and the extent of the injury has left the club uncertain over his return date.
Speaking after the match, Nuno expressed both disappointment and concern over the defender’s absence.
“It’s difficult for us because we’re going to miss his quality, his versatility, and the chemistry he developed with the rest of the team,” the Forest boss said. “His presence on the pitch was crucial.”
Aina, known for his adaptability across the defensive line, has played a key role in Nottingham Forest’s campaign.
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has made him an integral part of the squad, and his injury arrives at a critical juncture of the season.
Nuno confirmed that Aina will miss at least the upcoming matches against Aston Villa and Everton, with further assessments to determine whether he might return before the end of the Premier League season.
“We have to live with it,” Nuno acknowledged. “But we hope to see him back before the final stretch of the league.”
The injury represents a significant challenge for Nottingham Forest, who are looking to solidify their standing in the top flight amid a tightly contested lower half of the table.
With fixtures piling up and pressure mounting, Aina’s absence will require tactical reshuffling and possibly reliance on less experienced squad members.
The 27-year-old former Chelsea and Torino full-back has impressed since arriving at the City Ground, combining defensive solidity with dynamic forward play.
His injury comes as a blow not just to the team’s defence but also to its transitional play — an area where Aina’s pace and awareness have been pivotal.
As Forest brace for crucial fixtures in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on how they adapt to life without one of their most consistent performers.
The club, while hopeful of his recovery, must now look to its bench for answers as the final stretch of the season approaches.
