Ola Aina’s Future in England: Salary and Prospects with Nottingham Forest F.C.

In the summer transfer window, Nottingham Forest F.C., which narrowly avoided relegation last season, strengthened its defensive lineup by signing Ola Aina, a former Chelsea F.C. academy player, as a free agent. 

Despite the current struggles of his team, the Nigerian defender has the potential not only to aid in securing Nottingham Forest’s position in the Premier League (EPL) but also to negotiate a more lucrative contract at the end of the season. The Kick Off Nigeria looks into the player’s finances. 

Ola Aina’s Salary at Nottingham Forest F.C.

Aina, who joined the English club in the summer of 2023, has a contract valid until June 30, 2024. For the 2023/2024 season, the Nigerian footballer is set to earn €2,415,411, equivalent to 46,450 euros per week. Aina’s salary makes him the lowest-paid among the African players in the team.

Team Salary Overview: Aina – Lowest-Paid Among African Players

In the 2023/2024 season, Nottingham Forest F.C. has an overall wage bill of €86,690,016, or 1,667,116 euros per week. Aina ranks 17th in the team’s salary hierarchy, sharing this position with Ivorian defender Willy Boly and American goalkeeper Matt Turner. Among African players, Aina is fourth in Nottingham Forest’s salary list, marking the lowest figure in the team.

Career Salary Comparison: Earning Growth After Returning to England

Ola Aina’s salary first increased after his debut for Chelsea F.C.’s main team. Despite subsequent loan spells in the Championship, his earnings remained consistent. A significant salary boost came during his time with Torino FC in Italy, where his income nearly doubled after signing a full contract.

Returning to the Premier League on loan to Fulham F.C. in the 2020/2021 season resulted in a reduction in Aina’s salary. However, a successful season earned him a chance back in Torino, where his salary returned to previous levels. Joining Nottingham Forest F.C. further increased Aina’s earnings by almost one and a half times, making it his highest salary to date.

Market Value: A Steady Rise After Returning to England

After showcasing his skills in Chelsea F.C.’s youth team and winning five trophies, Aina reached the Premier League level. Despite a successful season at Hull City A.F.C., Aina’s transfer value tripled when moving to the Championship. His market value continued to rise, peaking at €10,000,000 during the 2018/2019 season at Torino FC. Despite subsequent challenges, Aina’s market value has steadily increased, currently standing at €8,000,000 at Nottingham Forest F.C.

International Achievements: Aina’s Contributions to the Nigerian National Team

Born in South London, Aina initially represented England at various youth levels but switched allegiances to Nigeria in 2017. His debut for Nigeria coincided with the 2019 African Cup of Nations, where they reached the semi-finals. Aina has continued to be a key player in subsequent editions, contributing to Nigeria’s progress in the tournaments.

Football and Financial Prospects 

In the 2023/2024 season, Aina has secured a regular starting position at Nottingham Forest F.C., featuring in 21 matches and making significant contributions. If he performs well in the upcoming African Cup of Nations and helps the English team maintain their Premier League status, there is a possibility that Aina may negotiate a new contract with the club on more favorable terms.