Ola Aina praises John Terry’s mentorship during Chelsea Academy days

By Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Ola Aina has credited Chelsea legend John Terry for playing a pivotal role in his development during his time at the club’s academy.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Aina reflected on his early career at Chelsea, where he rose through the ranks at the club’s renowned Cobham academy before making his senior debut.

Now playing for Nottingham Forest, the 28-year-old spent several years on loan before leaving Chelsea permanently in 2019 in search of consistent first-team football.

Despite limited appearances—just six for the senior squad—Aina looks back fondly on his time at Stamford Bridge, especially for the mentorship he received.

“JT (John Terry) was a big one for us because he was really good with the academy boys,” Aina said.

“All my memories that I’ve had with JT—they’ve been really good. He’s a really supportive guy. He just knows how to connect with the young ones.”

Aina was part of the Chelsea squad that won the Premier League in the 2016/17 season under Antonio Conte, which also marked Terry’s final campaign with the club.

He also recalled the presence of another Chelsea great during his youth career. “Ashley Cole was there,” Aina added, acknowledging the influence of multiple senior figures during his formative years.

A product of Chelsea’s youth system, Aina has since gone on to earn 46 caps for the Nigerian national team and establish himself as one of the Cobham Academy’s standout success stories.

In a twist of fate, reports suggest Chelsea may be interested in bringing Aina back to Stamford Bridge this summer, as his current contract with Nottingham Forest nears its end.