AFCON 2025: Massive boost for Super Eagles as Ola Aina returns to training after surgery

AFCON 2025: Massive boost for Super Eagles as Ola Aina returns to training after surgery

Hassan Abdulsalam 09:18 - 21.11.2025

Ola Aina is back in full training at Nottingham Forest after undergoing hamstring surgery.

Massive boost for Erc Chelle's Super Eagles ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations as Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has returned to training after spending several weeks sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained on international duty with Nigeria.

His comeback is a welcome development for Forest and Super Eagles, who have struggled with depth and defensive consistency during his absence.

Aina picked up the injury in early September while representing the Super Eagles in a World Cup qualifying match against South Africa. He was forced off after just 10 minutes, prompting immediate medical assessment upon his return to England.

Successful surgery and steady recovery

Following consultations with club specialists, the 29-year-old underwent a corrective procedure to repair the damaged hamstring. Since then, Aina has been on a closely monitored rehabilitation plan at the club’s training ground.

Club sources indicate that the defender has progressed ahead of schedule, completing several phases of his recovery without setbacks. His return to full team training this week suggests he is nearing match fitness.

He is expected to be available for selection sometime next month, depending on how he adapts to sharper sessions and competitive drills.

Boost for Sean Dyche’s relegation fight

Forest manager Sean Dyche, who took over with the mission of stabilising the struggling Premier League side, will view Aina’s return as a significant reinforcement.

The Nigerian international had been one of Forest’s most reliable performers before the injury, offering both defensive solidity and attacking support from the flanks.

With Forest battling to climb out of the relegation zone, Dyche is eager to integrate him back into the matchday squad as soon as possible.

Eyes on AFCON 2025 as Super Eagles await his comeback

Aina’s injury forced him to miss Nigeria’s last four international fixtures, including the World Cup playoff matches.

His recovery timeline puts him on course to regain full sharpness ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which begins on December 21 in Morocco.

The defender is expected to play an important role as the Super Eagles aim to bounce back from recent disappointments and mount a strong challenge at the continental tournament.