Ola Aina’s ongoing fitness battle has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of Nottingham Forest’s highly anticipated FA Cup semi-final clash against Manchester City. The 28-year-old right-back, who has been a reliable figure for Forest this season, has been sidelined since picking up an injury during the team’s match against Manchester United in early April. As the club prepares for one of their most important matches of the season, the uncertainty surrounding Aina’s fitness has only added to the pressure on Nuno Espirito Santo and his squad.
Aina’s injury initially raised concerns about his availability for the FA Cup semi-final, especially considering that his recovery timeline seemed uncertain. He was expected to be back for Forest’s fixture against Everton, but as the days passed, it became clear that Aina wouldn’t be fit enough to feature in that match. Despite these setbacks, there was still hope within the club and among fans that Aina could make a timely recovery and be available for selection against Manchester City. Aina himself has remained optimistic, stating that he has been feeling better as the FA Cup semi-final approaches. This has provided a glimmer of hope for the Forest faithful, who are desperate for any good news ahead of such a crucial fixture.
However, with the semi-final rapidly approaching, the situation remains fluid. Although Aina has made some positive strides in his recovery, it’s unclear whether he will be fit enough to play a significant role in the match. Forest expert Paul Taylor, writing for The Athletic, provided some insight into the current situation, offering a sliver of hope for fans by suggesting that Aina still has a chance of being involved in the semi-final. While this is a positive update, it’s important to note that Taylor’s words are cautiously optimistic, acknowledging that Aina’s involvement is far from guaranteed.
In a recent pre-match press conference, Nuno Espirito Santo echoed this uncertainty, offering a somewhat cryptic response when asked about Aina’s chances of featuring. He said, “There’s still tomorrow [Saturday] to go, let’s see,” leaving fans in suspense as to whether Aina will be able to make the final squad. While this answer is far from conclusive, it does suggest that the manager hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility of Aina being available for selection. However, given the short turnaround and the nature of Aina’s injury, it seems unlikely that he will be ready to start the match. Instead, he may only feature as a substitute or in a limited role, should he be deemed fit enough to make the squad.
The absence of Aina would leave Forest with a considerable gap in their squad, as Neco Williams, another regular option at right-back, is unavailable due to suspension. This has created a significant problem for Espirito Santo, as the manager will now need to find a solution to cover both right-back spots in time for the semi-final. In recent weeks, Williams has been forced to fill in on the right, with either Alex Moreno or Harry Toffolo stepping in at left-back. With Aina’s injury and Williams’ suspension, the team will be missing both of their first-choice full-backs, which presents a major dilemma for Espirito Santo.
If Aina is unavailable for the match, Forest may have to rely on either Moreno or Toffolo to play on the right side, even though neither player is naturally suited for the role. Toffolo, in particular, has been a dependable option at left-back, but his versatility may be called upon to help cover the right flank if needed. Alternatively, Moreno could be shifted across to the right, though he too is more accustomed to playing on the left. The situation is far from ideal, but the injury crisis has left Espirito Santo with few options to choose from.
Another potential solution to the full-back conundrum could involve a change in formation. As Paul Taylor notes, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise if Espirito Santo decided to switch to a three-man central defense for the FA Cup semi-final. This tactical adjustment would allow Forest to utilize Milenkovic, Murillo, and Morato as a defensive trio, with Toffolo deployed as a left-wing back to provide width and support on the left flank. On the right, Forest could opt for Dominguez to play as a right-wing back, a position that would allow him to contribute defensively while also providing some attacking threat.
Switching to a three-man defense would solve some of Forest’s personnel issues, but it also represents a departure from the system that has been successful for the team in recent weeks. In their 1-0 win over Manchester City back in March, it was the four-at-the-back formation that allowed Forest to keep a clean sheet and secure an impressive victory over Guardiola’s side. While a three-man defense might make sense given the current squad limitations, it would also be a gamble. The four-at-the-back system has worked well for Forest recently, and moving away from that might disrupt the defensive solidity that they have relied on in key matches.
If Espirito Santo decides to go with the three-man defense, it would be a bold move, but it’s a decision that could pay off if executed properly. However, the manager is also acutely aware that any change to the defensive setup carries inherent risks, particularly when facing an attacking juggernaut like Manchester City. Guardiola’s side has the ability to exploit defensive weaknesses, and any lapses in concentration could prove costly, especially in a high-stakes match like this.
In the event that Aina is able to recover in time to feature in the semi-final, his inclusion would be a significant boost to Forest’s chances. Aina has been a consistent performer for the club this season, and his experience would bring much-needed stability to the backline, especially in a match of such importance. His natural position at right-back would allow Forest to maintain their preferred defensive system, which has served them well in recent weeks. However, with the clock ticking down to match day, the reality is that Aina’s involvement is still uncertain, and Espirito Santo will have to prepare for all eventualities.
The absence of Aina and Williams leaves Forest in a difficult position, but they are not without options. Whether Espirito Santo decides to tweak the formation or rely on the versatility of players like Toffolo and Moreno, the manager will need to find a solution that allows his team to remain competitive against one of the best teams in Europe. The stakes are incredibly high for Nottingham Forest as they look to secure a spot in the FA Cup final, and the next few days will be critical in determining whether they can overcome the challenges posed by injury and suspension.
If Aina does make a timely recovery and is able to feature in the semi-final, it would provide a much-needed lift to the team and offer a sense of hope for the supporters. However, the uncertainty surrounding his fitness means that Forest’s preparations for the match will be anything but straightforward. The manager will need to weigh up his options carefully and make the best decisions for the squad, regardless of whether Aina is available or not. With the match against Manchester City looming large, every decision will carry immense significance for Forest’s FA Cup aspirations.