Nottingham Forest: Vitor Pereira announces Ola Aina's return to training

Africa 22 May 2026 at 05:55

Nouya M'toama

News Editor

Nigerian defender Ola Aina is back in training with Nottingham Forest, just ahead of the final Premier League matchday against Bournemouth. It's great news for the English club, who are gradually regaining key players as the season draws to a close.

Head coach Vitor Pereira confirmed that Aina has returned to the pitch after several weeks out with an injury suffered during a European competition fixture.

Aina picked up the injury during the first leg of the European semi-final against Aston Villa, played on April 30. Since then, the right-back had not featured for his team, notably missing recent league matches, including the clash with Manchester United.

His absence had raised questions about his availability for the season's run-in, with Nottingham Forest battling to finish the campaign on a high note.

A gradual but uncertain return for the final matchday

According to Vitor Pereira, some players are still in recovery, but Aina's progress is encouraging.

"Murillo is still training apart from the group. Ola (Aina) started working on the pitch today," the Portuguese coach stated.

Even though Aina is back on the pitch, his involvement in the decisive match against Bournemouth remains uncertain and will depend on his physical progress over the coming days.

This gradual return is also a positive sign for the Nigerian national team, who might be able to count on a fitter Aina ahead of upcoming international fixtures.