Aina Targets Five Goals After Goal-Shy Season, Jokes About ‘Prayer And Fasting’

Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has set himself an ambitious target of scoring five goals in the 2026/27 season, joking that it will take “prayer and fasting” to end his goal drought.

The Nigeria international endured a frustrating 2025/26 campaign in front of goal, failing to score in 28 appearances for Forest despite contributing an assist in the club’s 2-1 UEFA Europa League defeat to Fenerbahce.

Speaking during a light-hearted session on Twitch, the versatile defender admitted he was disappointed not to have found the back of the net and is determined to improve his attacking output in the new season.

“I need to pray and fast because I didn’t score at all last season. The year before, I had three (goal involvements). I need serious prayer—at least five would make me happy,” Aina said with a smile.

Aina, who began his career as a winger before establishing himself as a dependable full-back capable of playing on either side of the defence and in central defence, is already back in pre-season training with Nottingham Forest.

The 28-year-old is expected to feature when Forest take on Notts County in a pre-season friendly on Saturday as preparations for the 2026/27 campaign gather pace.

Having become a key figure in Forest’s backline with his consistency, versatility and attacking runs, Aina will be hoping to add more end product to his performances and help the club challenge on both domestic and European fronts.

His humorous comments have already attracted attention, but the Super Eagles defender will be hoping his blend of hard work on the training ground—and perhaps a little divine favour—helps him turn that five-goal target into reality.