Former Super Eagles captain and Fenerbahçe defender, Joseph Yobo, has expressed strong support for a potential transfer of Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina to Manchester City.
Speaking to Africafoot, Yobo highlighted Aina’s impressive performances in the Premier League and believes a move to Pep Guardiola’s side would be a great step for both the player and Nigerian football.
Hailing Aina’s qualities, Yobo described him as one of the standout right-backs in the league this season.
“Aina is currently one of the top three right-backs in the Premier League, and joining Manchester City wouldn’t surprise me at all,” Yobo said. “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.”
The former Everton defender further emphasized the benefits Aina could gain under Guardiola’s mentorship, citing the Spanish tactician’s ability to refine defenders into world-class talents.
“Aina would also improve his game by working with the best coach in the world,” he added.
However, while praising the potential move, Yobo acknowledged the downside for Nottingham Forest, who risk losing the Nigerian full-back on a free transfer when his contract expires.
“To be honest, this would only be good news for Nigeria. 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,” Yobo stated.
Aina, who joined Nottingham Forest on a one-year deal in the summer of 2023 after departing Serie A side Torino, has been a key figure in the team.
With his contract running out, he is set to attract significant interest in the summer transfer window, and Manchester City is reportedly among the clubs keeping a close eye on his situation.
