Nigeria’s Ola Aina has been named in the Premier League Team of the Week after a commanding performance for Nottingham Forest in their 3-1 victory over Brentford.
The Super Eagles defender was one of the standout players on the opening weekend of the season.
The 27 year old right back earned a 7.73 rating from the football statistics platform WhoScored. It was the highest score among defenders in his position.
His strong display has put him alongside big names from Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in the team of the week.
Rock Solid at the Back
Aina’s defensive work was key to Forest’s success. He made seven clearances, won eight of his 15 duels, and produced three important tackles.
Brentford could not get past him once in the entire game. His focus and sharp decision making in one on one battles made a big difference for Forest.
On the ball, Aina was just as effective. He had 75 touches and completed 32 passes with an accuracy of 91 percent.
He also attempted two dribbles and beat his man on one occasion, showing confidence going forward.
Forest’s Victory Lifted by Aina and Wood
Chris Wood scored twice for Forest in the first half while Dan Ndoye added another goal.
Brentford pulled one back through Igor Thiago from the penalty spot after the break, but Forest stayed in control.
Aina’s calm presence at the back helped his team hold firm until the final whistle.
Aina was not the only Forest player to be rewarded for his efforts. Wood’s finishing also secured him a spot in the Team of the Week, underlining the strength of Forest’s win.
Other Big Names in the Team of the Week
🏴 Premier League Team of the Week. pic.twitter.com/UPPXnb5I0J
— WhoScored (@WhoScored) August 19, 2025
Elsewhere, Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya took the goalkeeper’s slot after his vital saves in a narrow 1-0 win at Manchester United.
Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, Sunderland’s Daniel Ballard, and Leeds United’s Gudmundsson joined Aina in the back line.
The midfield featured Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus, who starred in Tottenham’s emphatic win over Burnley.
He was joined by his Spurs teammates Richarlison and Pape Matar Sarr, with Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo and Manchester City’s Nico González completing the unit.
Up front, Richarlison partnered Chris Wood as both strikers delivered clinical finishing for their clubs.
