Aina Sidelined Until 2025 as Forest Activate UEFA Injury Rule

Nottingham Forest head coach Sean Dyche has confirmed that Super Eagles defender Ola Aina will not return to action for the club until next year, despite making good progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Aina suffered the injury during Nigeria’s draw with South Africa in September and was ruled out for three months after undergoing surgery. His initial comeback timeline was set for December, raising hope that he might feature before the end of the year.

Dyche, however, clarified that the 29-year-old cannot rejoin the squad yet. Speaking on Forest’s injury situation, he said: “It’s better news… Not everyone is quite fit yet, but a few are back on the grass… Ola is getting closer to fitness, but obviously can’t be with us until January.”

The reason is tied to UEFA’s new rule on long-term injuries. Aina was removed from the club’s European squad during Ange Postecoglou’s brief spell, allowing Forest to register new signing Oleksandr Zinchenko in his place. The regulation permits temporary replacement only if the injured player is sidelined for at least 60 days — but even if he recovers earlier, he is barred from competing until the approved period ends.

With AFCON also taking place in December, Aina’s return to European football is now expected in early 2025.