Ola Aina injury sparks concern at Nottingham Forest ahead of Arsenal clash, as new boss Postecoglou may face early defensive reshuffles

Ola Aina injury fears have rocked Nottingham Forest just days before their Premier League showdown with Arsenal, after the defender limped out of Nigeria’s 1–1 draw with South Africa on Tuesday during a World Cup qualifier.

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Aina lasted only 10 minutes in Bloemfontein before signalling to the bench, walking off the pitch in visible frustration with what appeared to be a hamstring issue.

The injury is a blow for Forest, who are navigating a major transition after sacking Nuno Espírito Santo earlier this week and appointing Ange Postecoglou as head coach.

The Australian tactician now faces a potential defensive reshuffle before his first match in charge — a daunting trip to the Emirates Stadium to face title hopefuls Arsenal.

If Aina is ruled out, Postecoglou could opt for Nico Williams at right-back, or test Nicolo Savona at left-back, with Oleksandr Zinchenko unavailable against his parent club.

“The Postecoglou curse has begun!” one fan posted on X, echoing widespread concerns on social media about the manager’s notorious injury record from his Tottenham days.

Aina has been a consistent starter this season, playing every minute of Forest’s games against Brentford, Crystal Palace, and West Ham.

The 28-year-old had spoken just weeks ago about the team’s growing expectations following last season’s seventh-place finish and European qualification.

“It’s good that we’re setting the bar higher… that’s how you keep growing as a team and a club,” Aina said.

His sudden setback has therefore caused alarm not just for Postecoglou, but for fans who see Aina as a key figure in Forest’s defensive setup.

Forest fans took to social media with a mix of humour and worry after news of the Ola Aina injury broke. Comments ranged from mock-serious concerns to outright jokes:

@Sebastiann\_2025: “The injury curse begins.”
@DanCthfc: “Ange not even met him yet and already his hamstring’s finished.”
@trickytrees12: “The Ange effect.”
@NFFCBrasil (Brazil fan page): “FIFA break effect or Ange Postecoglou effect?”

Postecoglou’s first four matches are all away games, with Arsenal the toughest of the lot. He’ll be hoping Aina’s issue is minor and won’t affect the club’s early campaign momentum.

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Forest are already thin at the back, and an extended absence for Aina could test the depth and resilience of a squad still adjusting to new leadership.