Ola Aina ‘alone’ at Nottingham Forest after Taiwo Awoniyi’s move to Coventry City

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina says Taiwo Awoniyi’s departure from Nottingham Forest has left him without his Nigerian team-mate at club level, but is pleased the striker remains in the Premier League with Coventry City.

Aina and Awoniyi previously shared the Forest dressing room, with the full-back admitting that the striker’s exit was personally difficult because of the connection they had as fellow Nigeria internationals.

“Yeah, I’m alone now,” Aina said. “I just want to keep playing and enjoying my football. That’s the main thing for me.”

The pair’s shared nationality gave them a bond beyond their responsibilities at Forest, and Aina acknowledged how valuable it had been to have another Nigerian international alongside him.

Awoniyi left Forest during the summer transfer window after four seasons at the City Ground. He joined newly promoted Coventry City on a permanent transfer after scoring 21 Premier League goals in 90 appearances for Forest.

Aina said he was nevertheless pleased that Awoniyi had secured another opportunity in England’s top flight, adding that the move could provide the striker with more regular football.

“I’m also happy for Taiwo [Awoniyi]. He’s gone somewhere where he’s going to play more games,” Aina said.

The defender also revealed that he contacted Awoniyi personally once the transfer had been completed.

“I messaged him personally that day. It was a personal note I sent to him. I was so happy for him. It’s between us, and I hope we can have a good season,” he added.

Although the two players will now represent different clubs, they remain part of Nigeria’s national-team set-up and can continue their partnership with the Super Eagles.

Aina’s immediate club focus is on contributing to Nottingham Forest under head coach Oliver Glasner, while Awoniyi begins a new chapter with Coventry City.

Their day-to-day relationship at club level has ended, but Aina’s comments underline that the friendship between the two Nigerians remains strong.