Ghanaian international Antoine Semenyo has ranked Nigeria’s Ola Aina among the most difficult defenders he has faced in the English Premier League this season.
The AFC Bournemouth forward made the revelation while speaking to Bleacher Report via Ghanasoccernet.
Semenyo, who has been in fine form for Bournemouth, also included Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Tottenham Hotspur’s Destiny Udogie in his list of the toughest opponents he has encountered this season.
“Van Dijk was tough when we played them (against Liverpool) home and away. I think Udogie as well.
He is a tough player to come up against. Ola Aina is also up there. I think those three,” Semenyo stated.
The 25-year-old has enjoyed a standout season for Bournemouth, registering seven goals and four assists in 27 appearances.
His performances have reportedly attracted interest from Arsenal ahead of the summer transfer window.
Aina’s inclusion in Semenyo’s list highlights the Nigerian’s exceptional form for Nottingham Forest.
The 28-year-old full-back has been one of Europe’s most formidable defenders this season, ranking as the continent’s top ball-winner across the five major leagues, according to WhoScored statistics.
Aina has played over 2,500 minutes across all competitions, playing a key role in Forest’s defensive solidity.
He has helped goalkeeper Matz Sels secure 12 clean sheets in the Premier League—the highest in the division this season and the joint-best tally of Aina’s career.
Beyond his defensive stability, Aina has proven to be an effective disruptor of opposition attacks, leading his team with 30 interceptions—placing him joint-26th in the Premier League rankings.
His recent defensive masterclass came in Forest’s 1-0 victory over Manchester City, where he made a crucial tackle on Omar Marmoush that led to the game-winning goal.
Facing City’s explosive winger Jérémy Doku, Aina stood strong, winning four ground duels, making three clearances (including two-headed clearances), and recovering the ball four times.
With his outstanding form, Aina has earned a call-up to the Nigerian squad for their upcoming clashes against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.
