Nottingham Forest fullback Ola Aina has emerged as the top performer in a key defensive metric across Europe’s top five leagues, according to data from WhoScored.
The Chelsea Academy graduate has won possession in the defensive third 105 times in 28 Premier League matches.
This is a figure at least 13 more than any other player in England, Spain, Italy, Germany, or France during the 2024/2025 season.
Aina’s defensive strength has been vital for Nottingham Forest, significantly contributing to 12 clean sheets for goalkeeper Matz Sels.
His ability to anticipate opposition moves, execute precise tackles, and recover possession under pressure makes him one of Europe’s most reliable fullbacks.
Here are the key stats:
105 possession recoveries in the defensive third
2,445 minutes played in the Premier League
Only two yellow cards all season
Aina’s discipline and defensive consistency have also boosted his chances of making Nigeria’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
