A potential move to Manchester City for Ola Aina could change the face of Nigerian football according to a former Super Eagles captain
The possibility of Ola Aina joining Manchester City has sparked excitement among Nigerian football fans, and former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo has given his full backing to the potential move.
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The Nottingham Forest full-back has been one of the standout defenders in the Premier League this season, and speculation is growing that Pep Guardiola could bring him to the Etihad this summer.
Why Aina’s move to Man City could be a game-changer
Joseph Yobo, who enjoyed a stellar career with clubs like Everton and Fenerbahce, believes that Aina is currently among the top three right-backs in the Premier League and would be a perfect fit for Guardiola’s system.
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Speaking in a recent interview, the former Super Eagles captain said, "Aina is currently one of the top three right-backs in the Premier League, and joining Manchester City wouldn’t surprise me at all.
“It would be a masterstroke for both the player and Manchester City. He’s an imposing defender but also an excellent attacker, something Guardiola looks for in his full-backs.”
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Beyond personal success, this move would be a huge milestone for Nigerian football. Having a Super Eagles star at a club like Manchester City, one of the biggest teams in world football, would boost the global reputation of Nigerian footballers.
It could also inspire young talents with dual nationality to play for Nigeria, showing them that Premier League stardom is within reach as a Super Eagle.
Yobo feels for Nottingham Forest amidst potential Aina departure
While Yobo sees the potential transfer as a massive win for Nigerian football, he acknowledged that Nottingham Forest would suffer a major setback by losing Aina for free.
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The former Fenerbahce defender added, "The only downside to this move is that Nottingham Forest would lose a key asset for free. It’s a surprise they let him stay until the end of his contract.”
Since joining Forest in the summer of 2023 on a one-year deal, Aina has quickly established himself as one of their most important defensive players.
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His performances have caught the attention of top clubs, not just Manchester City, and with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, he could become one of the most sought-after free agents in the summer transfer window.