Nottingham Forest Retains Key Players Amidst Squad Restructuring
Nottingham Forest Football Club has announced its retained list for the upcoming 2025/26 season, confirming the continuation of Nigerian internationals Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi. This decision comes amidst a period of squad restructuring, with departures like defender Harry Toffolo and the return of loanee Alex Moreno to Aston Villa. The retention of Aina and Awoniyi signals the club’s belief in their potential and their importance to the team’s future ambitions.
Ola Aina: A Standout Season Secures His Place
Ola Aina, the versatile full-back who joined Forest on a free transfer from Torino in July 2023, quickly established himself as a key component of the squad. His consistent performances throughout the season earned him a starting role in all 35 Premier League matches, accumulating over 3,000 minutes of playing time. Aina’s contributions extended beyond his defensive duties, with two crucial goals against Brentford and West Ham, instrumental in Forest’s successful navigation of a challenging campaign. His single assist and involvement in 11 clean sheets further solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top full-backs. The club’s decision to activate a one-year extension clause in Aina’s contract in May reflects their satisfaction with his performances and their commitment to his continued presence in the squad.
Taiwo Awoniyi: A Challenging Season and an Uncertain Future
In contrast to Aina’s successful season, Taiwo Awoniyi experienced a more difficult period. Limited game time saw him struggle to make a significant impact, scoring only one league goal before a severe abdominal injury sustained against Leicester City in May brought his season to a premature end. The injury, requiring emergency surgery and an induced coma, raised concerns about his long-term prospects. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his role at the City Ground, particularly given the potential arrival of Brazilian forward Igor Jesus, Forest has opted to retain the 26-year-old striker. This decision suggests a lingering belief in his ability to rediscover the form that prompted his club-record £17m transfer from Union Berlin in 2022.
The Weight of Expectations and the Burden of Injuries
Awoniyi’s arrival at Nottingham Forest carried significant expectations, especially after his crucial goals secured the club’s Premier League status in the 2022/23 season. However, inconsistent form and recurring injuries have hampered his progress, limiting his goal tally to just eight over the past two seasons. The club’s decision to retain him despite these challenges underscores their hope for his recovery and a resurgence in his performance. The upcoming season will be crucial for Awoniyi to prove his worth and justify the club’s continued faith in his abilities.
Other Squad Decisions: Boly Offered New Contract, Hennessey’s Future Undecided
Beyond the decisions regarding Aina and Awoniyi, Nottingham Forest’s retained list revealed other key developments. Centre-back Willy Boly has been offered a new contract, indicating the club’s desire to retain his services. However, the future of goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions regarding his role within the squad. These decisions, alongside the departures and potential arrivals, highlight the ongoing process of squad evolution as Forest prepares for the challenges of the new season.
Navigating a Period of Transition: Balancing Stability and Change
The retained list provides a snapshot of Nottingham Forest’s strategic approach to squad management. The retention of key players like Aina provides a foundation of stability, while the decisions regarding players like Awoniyi and Boly reflect a willingness to invest in potential and address areas of concern. The ongoing discussions regarding Hennessey’s future and the potential arrival of new signings demonstrate the club’s dynamic approach to squad building, balancing the need for established talent with the desire for fresh blood and increased competition.
Looking Ahead: Building a Competitive Squad for the 2025/26 Season
As Nottingham Forest navigates this period of transition, the retained list provides a glimpse into the club’s vision for the future. The decisions made regarding player contracts and potential transfers will shape the team’s identity and its ability to compete in the demanding Premier League environment. The retention of Aina and Awoniyi, alongside other key players, forms the nucleus of a squad aiming to build upon the successes of the previous season and establish themselves as a consistent force in the top flight. The upcoming season will be a test of the club’s strategic planning and its ability to integrate new talent while maximizing the potential of existing players. The aim is to create a cohesive and competitive unit capable of achieving the club’s ambitions and solidifying its place in the Premier League.
