Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who currently oversees Super Eagles stars Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi, has poured cold water on speculation linking him with a move to AS Roma as Claudio Raineri’s replacement, Footynaija.com reports.
The Portuguese tactician, reportedly on the Italian club’s radar as they explore managerial options ahead of next season, has made it clear he remains committed to his role in the Premier League, despite rumoured interest from the Gialorossi.
Responding to a question about the Roma speculation in his pre-match press conference ahead of a season-defining game against Chelsea in the final match day of the season, Nuno Espirito Santo said with a smile on his face.
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“Do you really think that I’m going to waste time on that? So much seems to get read, my main focus is on preparing the team, trying to get the best solutions and details for the players. Nothing else. Nothing else.”
What does this mean for Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi?
Based on the remarks of the former Tottenham Hotspur boss, it appears that Aina and Awoniyi can rest assured of managerial stability and continuity if they both remain in the ranks of the Tricky Trees beyond this season.
This is certainly great news for Aina who has evolved into one of the best full-backs in the English top-flight under the tutelage of the Portuguese gaffer. Aina has been vital to Forest’s impressive campaign with Nuno’s side enduring their worst run of the season when the Nigeria international was sidelined by a calf injury.
As for Awoniyi, he will be looking to rejuvenate his Nottingham Forest career next season after falling down the pecking order of striking options courtesy of a combination of injury problems and poor form. For now though, his main focus will be getting back to full recovery after undergoing surgery on an abdominal injury.
What next?
Nottingham Forest square up against Chelsea for their final game of the season on Sunday, May 25 at The City Ground. A place in next season’s UEFA Champions League will be at stake for the two teams involved and Aina, an academy product of the Blues, will be looking to help his current club clinch that UCL spot at the expense of his boyhood club.
