Aina hopeful despite tough start with Forest

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has shared his goals for the season with Nottingham Forest. He talked about his life at the club after his teammate Taiwo Awoniyi left, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Aina, who came from Chelsea’s academy, has been with Nottingham Forest since moving from Torino in 2023. He has become one of the club's key players, making 89 appearances in all competitions.

He has played in all four of Nottingham Forest’s matches this season, which includes three in the Premier League and one in the Carabao Cup. Unfortunately, the team lost 2-0 to Leeds United in the second round and got knocked out of that competition.

Aina has played under six different permanent managers in just over three years at the City Ground. Oliver Glasner, who led Crystal Palace to three trophies last year, is the latest manager after taking over from Vitor Pereira last summer.

Despite the changes, Nottingham Forest has had a tough start to the new season, remaining winless after their first three Premier League games. But Aina believes the team can turn things around.

“It is always good to start a new campaign, but obviously today we fell short. It was too difficult,” Aina said, according to Ratings.

“It has been good. Everything is new, not perfect, but we are still working on making these things better. Hopefully, in the games to come, it gets better. Hopefully we do not fight for survival. Hopefully we are safe, and we are doing well in the league. I just want to play good football, do good things, and hopefully we can have a good season.”

Last season, Forest finished 16th after a late push helped them avoid relegation. They went through several managers during that time.

On the topic of Awoniyi leaving for Coventry City during the summer transfer window, Aina said he wishes his former teammate well.

“Yeah, I am alone now. I just want to keep playing and enjoying my football. That is the main thing for me,” the 29-year-old said.

“I messaged him personally that day, and it was a personal note I sent to him. I was so happy for him. It is between us, and I hope we can have a good season.”

Aina is likely to start when Nottingham Forest travels to Villa Park to face Aston Villa in Saturday’s early Premier League match. They are aiming to get their first win of the season.