Arsenal star Eberechi Eze names Super Eagles defender the toughest he’s faced

Arsenal midfielder Eberechi Eze has singled out Super Eagles star Ola Aina as the toughest defender he has faced in his career, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nottingham Forest have already faced Arsenal twice this season, with Eze involved in both matches. One of those encounters ended in a hard-fought draw at the City Ground, where Forest frustrated the visiting side and earned an important point.

During a recent interview featuring quickfire questions about his career, Eze was asked to name the toughest defender he has ever played against. Instead of choosing one of the league’s most famous centre-backs, the Arsenal star surprised many by pointing to Forest’s versatile full-back.

“I’m going to say Ola Aina, you know,” Eze said when asked the toughest defender he has ever faced.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by GOAL’s FanZone (@goalfanzone)

Eze has played against Aina several times during his career and believes the defender’s ability in one-on-one situations makes him extremely difficult to beat.

The Arsenal playmaker’s choice is an indication that Aina’s physical strength, smart positioning and well-timed challenges often make life uncomfortable for attackers.

While many forwards often mention defenders such as Virgil van Dijk when discussing the hardest opponents they have faced, Eze’s answer shows how respected Aina is among fellow professionals in England’s top flight.

Aside from that question, Eze also revealed other players he admires or respects in the game. The Arsenal midfielder said Brazilian legend Ronaldinho was the player he looked up to growing up. He also described Trent Alexander-Arnold as the best passer of the ball and named Kevin De Bruyne as the best player he has ever played against.

Super Eagles star Aina’s growing influence in England

Aina has become an important figure for Nottingham Forest since joining the club on a free transfer in 2023.

Born in London but representing Nigeria internationally, the full-back has built a reputation as a reliable and energetic defender capable of playing on either side of the back line.

His journey in professional football started in the academy of Chelsea before loan spells with Hull City and later a permanent move to Torino in Italy. He also spent time in the Premier League with Fulham before eventually joining Forest.

At the City Ground, Aina’s athleticism and versatility have made him a valuable member of the squad. The Super Eagles full-back’s ability to defend aggressively while still supporting attacks down the flanks has earned him respect from teammates, coaches and opponents alike.

However, the defender will be eager to bounce back from a difficult moment after his mistake allowed FC Midtjylland to score the only goal in a recent match. Despite that setback, he still has strong backing within the squad, and his experience means he remains a likely starter.

Forest supporters will be hoping Aina can rediscover the impressive form he showed last season. If he does, the Nigerian defender could play a crucial role in helping the club stay clear of relegation and remain competitive in the Premier League.