Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina is arguably enjoying his best individual campaign since becoming a professional footballer with his consistent displays for the Tricky Trees in the Premier League.
From his early days in the Chelsea youth system, to his sojourn in the EFL Championship and Italian Serie A, Aina has now come into his own at the City Ground with 27-year-old easily one of the best full-backs in England’s top division this season.
In this article, Footynaija.com brings you all you need to know about the Super Eagles star.
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Biography
Aina’s full name is Temitayo Olufisayo Olaoluwa Aina. He was born on October 8, 1996, in Southwark, London, to Nigerian parents originally from Ijebu-Ikenne in Ogun State, Nigeria.
The 27-year-old began his football journey at Chelsea where he signed as a 9-year-old school boy. He rose through the ranks, representing the Blues at different youth levels before making his first-team debut in a pre-season friendly against AFC Wimbledon on 19 July, 2014.
However, his career stalled at Chelsea as he managed only six appearances for the Blues, forcing him to seek opportunities elsewhere with loan moves to Hull City and Torino during the 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 seasons respectively.
After impressing while out on loan in Turin, Torino exercised their option to make his stay permanent and his career kicked off from there. After five years at Torino, including a season-long loan spell at Fulham (2020/2021 season), Aina returned to the Premier League in the summer of 2023 albeit with Nottingham Forest.
Ola Aina’s Stats
After a difficult start to his professional career that saw him make just six appearances in three years, Aina’s decision to seek opportunities away from Stamford Bridge paid off as his career has enjoyed a steady rise ever since.
The 27-year-old has racked up a tally of 291 appearances for both club and country so far. Below is a breakdown by club.
Chelsea (2014-2017) – 6 appearances
Hull City (2017-2018, on loan) – 46 appearances
Torino (2018-2019, on loan) – 32 appearances
Torino (2019-2020) – 37 appearances
Fulham (2020-2021) – 33 appearances
Torino (2021-2023) – 44 appearances
Nottingham Forest (2023 till date) – 54 appearances
Nigeria (2017 till date) – 39 appearances
Ola Aina’s Parents
Aina’s parents
Mr Olufemi Aina and Mrs Esther Aina are known to have made immense sacrifices to help their son Ola achieve his dreams of becoming a professional footballer.
Despite having to work multiple jobs as Nigerian immigrants living in London, Olufemi and Esther ensured Aina met up with his training sessions and matches, contributing significantly to his success in the profession.
Ola Aina’s Salary
According to Capology, Aina earns £40,000 per week at Nottingham Forest.
His weekly wages sum up to £1,920,000 in annual earnings and he could be set to receive a pay rise when he either signs a new deal at Forest or takes his talents elsewhere.
Ola Aina’s Net Worth and Market Value
Multiple sources estimate Aina’s net worth to be between $5 million and $10 million, which likely includes his football earnings along with potential income from endorsements and sponsorship deals.
His transfer worth has experienced a steep rise with his current market value standing at a peak €20 million according to TransferMarkt.
Aina’s Girlfriend
Regarding his personal life, there is no publicly confirmed information about Aina’s girlfriend. He was, however, rumored to be in a relationship with YouTuber Layos Choice, though neither he nor Layos has addressed the rumours.
FC 25 Ratings
Aina has an overall rating of 75 in EA SPORTS FC™ 25. Below is a breakdown of his best attributes;
Pace: 89
– Acceleration: 91
– Sprint Speed: 87
Dribbling: 74
– Agility: 73
– Balance: 77
– Reactions: 71
– Ball Control: 72
– Dribbling: 75
– Composure: 74
Defending: 70
– Interceptions: 70
– Heading Accuracy: 65
– Defensive Awareness: 69
– Standing Tackle: 72
– Sliding Tackle: 71
Physicality: 74
– Jumping: 85
– Stamina: 75
– Strength: 75
– Aggression: 68
