Aina Backs Awoniyi to Shine After Coventry City Move

Posted : 10 September 2026

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has reacted to Taiwo Awoniyi’s departure from Nottingham Forest, admitting that he is now without his Nigerian teammate at the Premier League club. Aina, however, says he remains focused on enjoying his football under new Forest manager Oliver Glasner.

Awoniyi joined newly promoted Coventry City during the summer transfer window after struggling for regular opportunities at Forest. The move ended his time at the City Ground and gives the 29-year-old another opportunity to establish himself as a regular Premier League striker.

Aina admitted that Awoniyi's departure has changed the Nigerian presence in the Forest dressing room. “Yeah, I’m alone now,” the defender said, while making it clear that his main focus remains his own football.

The 29-year-old defender also revealed that he contacted Awoniyi personally after the transfer was completed. Aina said he was happy for his compatriot and hopes both players can enjoy successful seasons with their respective clubs.

“I just want to keep playing and enjoying my football. That’s the main thing for me,” Aina said. “I messaged him personally that day. It was a personal note I sent to him. I was so happy for him.”

Aina's comments come as Forest begin a new chapter under Glasner. The Nigeria international has remained an important part of the squad and has featured in all four of Forest's matches this season, including three Premier League games and one Carabao Cup fixture.

Awoniyi, meanwhile, has already started to see regular action at Coventry. He has featured in all three of the club's opening Premier League matches, while also scoring once and providing an assist in a Carabao Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle.

His move has reunited him with another Nigerian international. Frank Onyeka joined Coventry permanently in July after helping the club secure promotion, giving Awoniyi a familiar face in his new dressing room.

Coventry have endured a difficult start to their return to the Premier League. They lost their opening three league matches, including a 1-0 defeat against Manchester City on September 5, although Awoniyi was involved in the game and had one notable opportunity.

Despite the difficult beginning, Awoniyi has been given the chance to play more regularly than he did toward the end of his Forest career. Aina's reaction shows that the move has also been welcomed by his former teammate, who now hopes to see the striker enjoy a productive campaign at Coventry.

Aina Backs Awoniyi to Shine After Coventry City Move

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