Nigeria international Ola Aina has signed a new three-year contract with Nottingham Forest, extending his stay at the City Ground until the summer of 2028.
The versatile full-back, who turned 28 in October, joined Forest in July 2023 on a free transfer after leaving Serie A side Torino FC. He initially signed a one-year deal with an option for a further year, which the club exercised at the end of the 2023–24 season.
The new contract supersedes the extension and demonstrates Forest’s long-term faith in Aina as a key figure in their evolving squad.
Key Role in Forest’s Revival
Aina quickly established himself as a dependable figure in the squad, showcasing his adaptability by playing across both flanks. Under head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, he featured predominantly at right-back but was also deployed on the left and occasionally in a wing-back role.
His tactical awareness, defensive discipline, and ability to contribute going forward were crucial to Forest’s strong campaign.
In 2024–25, Aina made 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice and providing two assists. He was a regular starter in Forest’s Premier League campaign, which saw the club finish seventh — their highest top-flight finish in over two decades — and qualify for European competition for the first time since 1995.
He also played a vital role in the team’s memorable run to the 2024/24 FA Cup semi-finals, where they were beaten 2-0 by Manchester City.
“Ola has been a model professional since he walked through the door,” head coach Nuno Espírito Santo said. “His attitude, consistency, and leadership both on and off the pitch have been invaluable. He fully deserves this new deal.”
Commitment to the Project
Aina’s contract extension is the latest in a series of moves by Nottingham Forest to retain key squad members and reinforce the stability of the club. Fellow full-back Neco Williams recently extended his stay until 2029, while Brazilian centre-back Murillo also signed a long-term deal through the same year.
In addition, Nuno Espírito Santo who was appointed in December 2023, signed a contract extension in June, underlining the club’s commitment to continuity as they prepare for European football next season.
Forest’s sporting director Ross Wilson commented on Aina’s new deal:
“Ola has brought a lot of quality and experience to our backline. He’s a player who understands the demands of the Premier League and has shown he can perform at the highest level. We’re delighted he’s part of our long-term plans.”
Aina’s Career Path and Super Eagles Contribution
Aina came through Chelsea’s youth system, winning the FA Youth Cup and UEFA Youth League, before making six senior appearances for the Blues. He went on loan to Hull City for the 2017–18 Championship season, where he played every league game and earned praise for his consistency.
He later joined Italian side Torino FC, initially on loan before making the move permanent in 2019. During his time in Italy, he made 113 appearances and scored once. He returned to the Premier League in 2020–21 with a loan spell at Fulham, playing 31 times for the Cottagers.
Internationally, Aina switched allegiance from England to Nigeria in 2017. Since making his Super Eagles debut, he has earned 40 caps and represented the country at two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including the 2019 edition in Egypt where Nigeria finished third. He was also part of the squad that reached the final of AFCON 2023 in Ivory Coast, losing narrowly to the hosts.
Known for his professionalism and calm presence, Aina is expected to play a key role for Nigeria in upcoming matches of their qualification campaign for the FIFA 2026 FIFA World Cup.