French journalist says only former Real Madrid star is better than Ola Aina in Africa

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has been named the second-best right-back in Africa by French journalist Philippe Doucet.

The 28-year-old Cobhams graduate is currently starring in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest. He is one of the standout players for the Tricky Trees as they are on course to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since the 1980/81 season. 

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Speaking in a segment on Canal+, Doucet showered praise on Aina, stating that the former Torino man was the best player in this position on the continent, after Paris Saint Germain and Morocco's Achraf Hakimi. 

"After PSG and Morocco star Achraf Hakimi, Nigeria and Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina is the best full-back in Africa."

It is difficult to dispute Doucet’s claim, as other than Hakimi, who is on course for a treble with Paris Saint-Germain this season, there have been no African right-backs in European football this season operating on a higher level than Aina. 

The likes of Bright Osayi Samuel, Tariq Lamptey, Youssef Sabaly, and Noussair Mazraoui have had decent seasons; however, Aina’s performances have been more impactful, and he is a shoo-in for the right-back slot in the Premier League team of the season.