Nigerian international and Nottingham Forest star Ola Aina has surprisingly earned the nod at right-back in Jamie Carragher's Premier League Team of the Season so far for 2024/2025, ahead of Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The 28-year-old’s stellar performances have established him as one of the league’s top defenders this season.
Aina, who signed a one-year contract with Nottingham Forest in the summer, has been an indispensable figure in Nuno Espírito Santo’s side. The Chelsea academy graduate has started all 19 of Forest’s Premier League matches this season and, across these games, clocked an average of 87 minutes per match, racking up an impressive 1,646 minutes overall.
What sets Aina apart this season is his versatility. He began the campaign at left-back but transitioned seamlessly to the right side, demonstrating his ambidexterity and comfort on both feet.
This adaptability has been crucial to Forest’s climb into the Premier League’s top four, with the Tricky Trees aiming to secure European football for the first time in decades.
Defensively, Aina has been a rock. He has averaged over two tackles per game, with 2.6 clearances and 5.7 recoveries per match. His ability to read the game is reflected in his 1.3 interceptions per game, while he has rarely been beaten, averaging just 0.8 instances of being dribbled past per game.
Offensively, the Nigerian has contributed two goals this season, further highlighting his well-rounded abilities. His technical composure on the ball and impressive passing range have made him a vital cog in Forest’s buildup play.
Reactions to Carragher’s selection of Aina
Carragher’s decision to include Aina over Alexander-Arnold has sparked debate among Premier League fans, particularly Liverpool supporters.
One critic questioned what more Trent had to do, labeling the omission unfair.
Another user said No Trent using a GIF.
However, many fans backed Aina’s inclusion, arguing his consistency and all-around impact have eclipsed Alexander-Arnold’s performances this season.
“As much as it pains me to admit, Trent hasn’t been as good as Aina,” one user tweeted, summarizing the sentiment of Aina’s growing admirers.
With his performances helping Forest defy expectations, the Nigeria international has no doubt earned his place in the spotlight.
