Ola Aina has left the Super Eagles camp ahead of their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Rwanda on Monday, following a special request from his club, Nottingham Forest.
According to NFF, Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo personally reached out to Nigeria’s interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, to ask for Ola Aina’s early release.
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Nottingham Forest’s Manager Pleads for Ola Aina’s Release
Espírito Santo’s appeal was reportedly driven by Forest’s preparations for a crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal after the international break.
Given that the Super Eagles have already secured qualification for the tournament in Morocco and are guaranteed to finish as Group D winners, Eguavoen agreed to the request.
The team’s 1-1 draw with Benin Republic last Thursday cemented their spot at the top of the group, making Monday’s fixture less critical.
With Ola Aina returning to the UK, Fenerbahce defender Bright Osayi-Samuel is expected to fill the right-back position in the game against Rwanda.
The Super Eagles will host the Amavubi at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with fans eager to see how the team performs without some of its key players.
Aina’s early departure reflects the balance between club and country commitments, particularly in less decisive fixtures.
