Ola Aina Sends Light-Hearted ‘Warning’ to Matz Sels After Everton Defeat: Banter or Trouble in the Ranks?
Following Nottingham Forest’s narrow 1–0 loss to Everton at Goodison Park, defender Ola Aina stirred up conversation on social media with a cryptic but seemingly playful message directed at teammate Matz Sels. The post, which included the word “trouble” alongside laughing emojis, has left fans speculating whether it was a moment of banter or a subtle critique of the goalkeeper’s performance.
The game itself was tightly contested, with Everton clinching victory through a single goal in the second half. Matz Sels, Forest’s January signing, was in goal and had a decent performance, although some supporters questioned his positioning during the decisive moment.
After the final whistle, Aina took to Instagram with a story tagging Sels, writing: “You’re in trouble big man!”, accompanied by laughing emojis and a behind-the-scenes dressing room photo. The post quickly gained traction among fans, prompting mixed reactions across social platforms.
Ola Aina has cultivated a reputation for being one of the most engaging and humorous figures in the Forest squad. From gifting a crate of eggs to Callum Hudson-Odoi as a joke to poking fun at teammates after training sessions, Aina’s social media is often a source of comic relief for fans.
However, this latest message has drawn attention for its timing—coming immediately after a frustrating loss. While most fans believe it was nothing more than friendly locker-room banter, others questioned whether the defender was subtly pointing to frustrations within the team.
Aina has previously come under scrutiny for off-field comments. After Forest’s 3–0 victory over West Ham earlier this season, he boldly stated the team had sent the Hammers “back to East London,” a remark that drew criticism and a caution from his former youth coach, who urged him to “know the line between celebration and disrespect.”
Team Unity or Tension?
Sources close to the club insist that the atmosphere in the dressing room remains strong and that Aina’s message to Sels was in jest. “Ola and Matz have a great relationship,” said one insider. “It’s just how they motivate each other—there’s no malice there.”
Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo has yet to comment on the incident, but is known to encourage strong team chemistry, often allowing players the space to express themselves—so long as it doesn’t undermine the collective.
Fans React
The fan base has been divided, with some seeing the humor in Aina’s post:
> “Ola just being Ola. We need this kind of energy after a loss—keeps morale up.”
— @TrickyTreesFan91
Others, however, weren’t as amused:
> “Right after a defeat is not the time for jokes, especially aimed at your own keeper.”
— @ForestTillIDie
What’s Next for Forest?
Nottingham Forest currently sit just above the relegation zone, and every point is crucial as the season draws to a close. With tough fixtures ahead, unity within the squad will be vital.
Whether Aina’s post was just a case of misinterpreted humor or something deeper, one thing is clear—every move, both on and off the pitch, is under the microscope as Forest fights to stay in the Premier Leagues
