Aina, Awoniyi to Play Under New Forest Boss Vitor Pereira

Super Eagles duo Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi will now work under a new manager at Nottingham Forest following the club’s decision to appoint Vítor Pereira as head coach on an 18 month contract until 2027.

Pereira replaces Sean Dyche, who was dismissed after just 114 days in charge, making him Forest’s fourth permanent manager of the 2025-26 Premier League season in a campaign marked by inconsistent results.

The Portuguese coach, who has previously managed clubs across several countries including in Turkey and England, inherits a Nottingham Forest side battling to secure Premier League survival with 12 games remaining. His first test will come in a Europa League tie against Fenerbahçe.

Aina and Awoniyi, both key Nigerian internationals, remain important figures at the City Ground, with Pereira now tasked with steering the club away from relegation danger as they balance domestic and European commitments.

Editorial

The appointment of Vítor Pereira comes at a crucial juncture for Nottingham Forest and arguably offers a reset for Nigerian stars Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi. Aina, who overcame a long injury lay-off earlier this season and returned to first-team action, needs a stable environment to build momentum in his Premier League campaign.

For Awoniyi, who signed a contract extension with Forest in June 2025 and has battled injury setbacks in recent seasons, a new manager presents fresh opportunity to stake his claim in attacking roles. The Portuguese coach’s experience in handling diverse squads could be vital in maximising their contributions as Forest look to climb the table.

Frequent managerial changes have marked Forest’s season, but the hope among supporters and players is that Pereira can provide consistency and tactical direction. Nigerian fans will be watching closely as the Super Eagles duo adapt to new leadership while striving to keep Forest in the Premier League.

Did You Know?

1. Vítor Pereira becomes Nottingham Forest’s fourth permanent manager of the 2025-26 season.
2. The Portuguese coach signed an 18-month contract with Forest, running until June 2027.
3. Sean Dyche was dismissed after 114 days in charge, with Forest looking to improve results.
4. Both Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi are Nigerian internationals currently on the Forest squad.
5. Pereira’s first matches in charge include a UEFA Europa League tie against Fenerbahçe, in addition to crucial Premier League fixtures.