Ola Aina Opens Up on AFCON Absence as Everton Express Interest

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Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has admitted that watching Nigeria compete in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) without him has been a challenging experience, calling it bittersweet.

Gossip News Now reports that Aina was initially named in Nigeria’s 54-man provisional squad but missed out on the final 28-man roster after months sidelined with a hamstring injury. The setback ruled him out of the tournament, which kicked off on December 21, 2025.

The 29-year-old wingback was part of Nigeria’s run to the final at the previous AFCON in the Ivory Coast, making his absence this year particularly hard to bear.

“It’s been different. Sometimes it’s been tough to watch, but I’m really happy for the team,” Aina told SuperSport ahead of Nigeria’s semi-final defeat to Morocco.

“I would have loved to be part of it and experience it with them, but it’s a joy to see how well they’re playing. Everyone has been waiting to see the Super Eagles perform like this. If they continue, I think they can go all the way.”

Nigeria impressed throughout the tournament, winning all their group matches and scoring 14 goals before their campaign ended in a penalty shoot-out loss in the semi-finals.

In Aina’s absence, coach Eric Chelle has relied on Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back, with Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu also featuring before being sidelined due to injury.

Off the pitch, Aina’s form has drawn attention from the transfer market. SportsBoom reports that Everton is exploring a potential January move for the defender as they look to address issues at right-back.

Everton manager David Moyes has been forced to rely on captain Seamus Coleman, who has only managed one Premier League start this season due to injury, while Nathan Patterson has struggled with fitness. Moyes is reportedly interested in reinforcements but cautious about signing Aina, who is only just returning from a lengthy layoff. The defender made his comeback earlier this month against Aston Villa after being sidelined since September.

Aina joined Nottingham Forest from Torino in 2023 and remains contracted at the City Ground until 2028.