By Our Correspondent
National News – Ola Aina is a major doubt for Nottingham Forest ahead of their UEFA Europa League semi-final second leg against Aston Villa in the West Midlands.
The Nigerian full-back missed the 3–1 Premier League win over Chelsea due to injury and remains sidelined as medical staff continue assessment.
His absence adds to Forest’s growing injury list at a critical stage of the European campaign. His availability will be assessed closer to kick-off.
The UEFA Europa League semi-final second leg takes place at Villa Park in the West Midlands on Thursday, May 7, 2026, as Aston Villa host Nottingham Forest.
Forest enter the match with a 1–0 advantage from the first leg, but face a serious injury crisis.
Coach Vitor Pereira has confirmed that Ola Aina, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Dan Ndoye, Murillo and Ibrahim Sangare are all unavailable or doubtful.
The injuries have disrupted tactical plans and reduced squad depth across defence and attack.
Aina’s absence is a major concern due to his defensive reliability and attacking support on the flank.
The situation has forced the coach to rely heavily on available squad members in a high-pressure European tie.
Pereira admitted that injuries have limited his selection options but insisted the team spirit remains strong despite setbacks.
He noted that the squad is adapting to challenges and focusing on maintaining their first-leg advantage.
Aina’s recovery remains uncertain, with no confirmed return date from the medical team.
The coach believes unity and resilience will be key factors in navigating the decisive fixture against a strong Aston Villa side.
Forest must now manage their depleted squad as they aim to reach the Europa League final.
Aston Villa are expected to push aggressively at home, making defensive stability crucial.
The potential absence of Aina could impact Forest’s width and transition play, increasing pressure on replacements in a tightly contested second leg.
Aston Villa’s home advantage is expected to intensify pressure throughout the match, testing Forest’s defensive structure and squad depth under European semi-final conditions.
