Ola Aina left the Super Eagles ahead of their last 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Rwanda on Monday, because of a special request by his club.
Nottingham Forest boss, Nuno Espirio Santo, spoke with Nigeria’s interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen.
Santo pleaded with Eguavoen to send Aina back to the UK, especially since the three-time African champions have already sealed qualification.
The Eagles are certain to finish as Group D winners ahead of their final game in the qualifying series after they drew 1-1 with Benin Republic on Thursday.
It led to Santo appealing for the early release of Aina, as Forest prepares to travel to Arsenal after the international break.
With Aina unavailable, Fenerbahce defender Bright Osayi-Samuel is expected to step up and start at right-back against Rwanda.
