Ola Aina Admits AFCON Absence Has Been Hard As Everton Show Interest

Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has admitted that missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been difficult to accept, describing the experience as bittersweet as he watches Nigeria thrive without him.

Naija News reports that Ola Aina was initially named in Nigeria’s 54-man provisional squad but failed to make the final 28 after spending months sidelined with a hamstring injury. The setback ruled him out of the tournament, which began on December 21, 2025.

Recall that the Nottingham Forest wingback was involved in Nigeria’s run to the final at the last AFCON in the Ivory Coast.

“It’s been different. Sometimes it’s been hard to watch, but I’m really happy for them, man,” Aina told SuperSport before Super Eagles’ defeat to Morocco in the semi-finals.

“I’m really happy that everything’s going well. Obviously, if things were different, maybe I would have been part of it and enjoyed it with them as well.

“But equally, I’m enjoying that they’re doing so well and it’s a joy to watch.

“I think they’re playing really well. It’s a joy to see because everyone’s been waiting for the Super Eagles to play like this. If they carry on like this, I think they can go all the way.”

Nigeria have impressed throughout the competition, winning all their matches and scoring 14 goals on their way to the semi-finals where their journey ended via penalties.

In Aina’s absence, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has relied on Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back, while Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu also featured before picking up an injury.

Away from international football, Aina’s situation has attracted interest in the transfer market. According to SportsBoom, Everton is considering a January move for the 29-year-old as they seek solutions to their right-back problems.

Everton manager David Moyes is understood to be keen on reinforcements, with captain Seamus Coleman limited to one Premier League start this season due to injury. Nathan Patterson has also struggled with fitness, forcing Moyes to explore alternative options.

However, the report suggests Moyes remains cautious about pursuing Aina, who is only just returning from a lengthy lay-off. The defender made his comeback earlier this month against Aston Villa, having been out since September.

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