Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has admitted that Taiwo Awoniyi’s departure from Nottingham Forest has left him without his Nigerian teammate at club level, but says he is happy the striker has remained in the Premier League with Coventry City.
Aina, who has shared the Forest dressing room with Awoniyi, described the striker’s exit as sad, explaining that having a fellow Nigerian international around the club made a difference to him personally.
“Yeah, I’m alone now,” Aina said. “I just want to keep playing and enjoying my football. That’s the main thing for me.”
The right-back acknowledged the value of their relationship, noting that representing the same country gave them common ground beyond their club responsibilities.
Awoniyi left Forest during the summer transfer window after four seasons at the City Ground, joining newly promoted Coventry City in a permanent move. The striker scored 21 Premier League goals in 90 appearances for Forest and will now look to make his mark with the Sky Blues.
Despite the emotional impact of the transfer, Aina said he was pleased his international teammate had found a new opportunity in England’s top flight and expressed confidence that Awoniyi could make the most of the move.
“I’m also happy for Taiwo [Awoniyi]. He’s gone somewhere where he’s going to play more games,” Aina said.
The defender revealed that he personally contacted Awoniyi after the transfer was completed, underlining the supportive relationship between the two Super Eagles stars.
“I messaged him personally that day. It was a personal note I sent to him. I was so happy for him. It’s between us, and I hope we can have a good season,” he added.
Although they will now represent different clubs, both players remain part of Nigeria’s national-team setup, where their partnership can continue.
For Aina, the focus remains on contributing to Nottingham Forest under head coach Oliver Glasner, while Awoniyi begins a new chapter at Coventry.
Their club paths have separated, but Aina’s message makes clear that the bond between the two Nigerians remains intact.
