Ex-Chelsea lad reveals key reasons he dumped England for Nigeria

Nigeria international defender Ola Aina has revealed that his family played a crucial role in his decision to play for the Super Eagles ahead of England, Afrik-Foot reports.

Aina was eligible to play for both football-loving countries having been born in the London Borough of Southwark to Nigerian parents.

It was, however, England who made the first move to secure his international allegiance. Aina represented the Young Lions at every level from Under-16 through to Under-20, and in 2015 he received a call-up to the Under-21 side. At that point, a senior future with England seemed possible.

But that pathway stalled. Without an Under-21 cap, the door to England’s senior side never fully opened. Then came a turning point in March 2017, when Aina accepted an invitation to train with Nigeria’s Super Eagles in London. It proved decisive.

Speaking to Nottingham Forest media team, Aina made clear that his roots guided his thinking as much as his career prospects.

“Born and raised in London, I decided to play for Nigeria. It was just a decision that I made when I was about 20. That’s where my parents are from; that’s my origin.

“The opportunity came for me and I thought it was the right one at that time, so I took it with both hands, and I’m here today.”

Because he had already represented England at youth level, FIFA approval was needed before he could switch. That clearance arrived in time for his debut in a World Cup qualifier against Zambia in October 2017, the moment his international story truly began.

For Aina, the choice quickly proved right, not only professionally but emotionally.

“My family are very proud of me, especially when I wear the Super Eagles shirt. They love it more than me. Even for me, it’s a privilege; it’s an honour. It’s amazing to actually play for them.”

Nigeria impact and Nottingham Forest ambitions

Aina’s decision to play for Nigeria has not been without its highs and lows. The former Chelsea lad was not included in the Super Eagles squad to the 2018 World Cup while Nigeria have failed to qualify for the 2022 and 2026 editions.

Aina, though, was a key member of the Nigeria team that won bronze and silver medals at the 2019 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, respectively. The ex-Torino fullback even made the Team of the Tournament at the 2023 AFCON.

However, Aina’s next trophy win could come from Nottingham Forest. Apart from the numerous honours won with Chelsea youth teams, the only club title on Aina’s resume is the Premier League triumph in 2017.

That could change this year, though, as Forest have reached the semifinals of the UEFA Europa League, the club’s first major European semi-final in 42 years.

Forest will next take on fellow Premier League outfit Aston Villa in an all-English semi-final.