Worry for Eric Chelle as key 48-cap Super Eagles star suffers injury in Europe

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina faces a potential spell on the sidelines after sustaining an injury during Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 victory over Aston Villa in the Europa League semifinal on Thursday night, Afrik-Foot reports.

Aina was a standout performer at the City Ground, delivering a dominant and disciplined performance on the right flank.

His defensive solidity, composure, and veteran experience were on full display as the Tricky Trees took a vital step toward the final.

Unfortunately, his night was prematurely cut short. The 29-year-old collapsed to the turf in the 74th minute, though he had appeared to be struggling physically moments before the incident.

Ola Aina Of Nottingham Forest goes down injured during the Nottingham Forest v Aston Villa UEFA Europa League Semi-Final 1st leg match at the City Ground — Ola Aina Of Nottingham Forest goes down injured. Copyright: xIMAGO/EveryxSecondxMedia

After receiving treatment from the medical staff, Aina was replaced by Zach Abbott. As he walked off the pitch, the Super Eagles star looked visibly dejected, a stark contrast to his usually buoyant demeanor.

After the match, Forest manager Vítor Pereira did not provide an immediate update on Aina’s condition.

However, judging by the defender’s reaction and the area he was clutching, it appears to be a muscle-related issue.

This raises concerns, as a hamstring injury had already kept him sidelined for three months earlier this campaign.

A Potential Blow for Nottingham Forest and Super Eagles

Ola Aina of Nottingham Forest celebrates victory during the UEFA Europa League Semi Final First Leg match between Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa at the City Ground — Ola Aina of Nottingham Forest. Copyright: Imago

While the severity of Aina’s injury is yet to be confirmed, a muscle tear could spell bad news for both club and country.

For Nottingham Forest, it could mean Aina misses the remainder of the season, including the crucial second leg against Aston Villa and a potential European final.

For Nigeria, the news is equally concerning for head coach Eric Chelle. Chelle has had limited opportunities to use Aina since the defender suffered a hamstring injury against South Africa in the World Cup qualifiers last October.

Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, and Moses Simon for Super Eagles — Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, and Moses Simon. Copyright: xAdekunlexAjayi / IMAGO

Undoubtedly Nigeria’s best right-back, Aina is a player Chelle would have been banking on for the high-profile friendly matches against Portugal and Poland scheduled for early June.

Nonetheless, it is hoped that the official prognosis from Nottingham Forest’s medical team, hoping the setback is minor and that the dynamic defender can return to action sooner rather than later.