Brandon Aguilera signed for Nottingham Forest in the summer and already he’s left the City Ground twice on loan. First, he signed for Guanacasteca and in January he joined the Portuguese outfit Estoril where he is struggling somewhat.
Aguilera is currently away with the Costa Rica squad. That in itself represents a step in the right direction, although he was an unused substitute for the game against Martinique last week.
The 19-year-old also went to the World Cup with his country. He was introduced as a substitute in all three of his country’s games against Spain, Japan and Germany.
At the club level, it’s been a more frustrating story, however. The versatile forward has made 14 appearances for his current loan club and is yet to score a goal.
Aguilera has played in a number of positions for Estoril but the majority of his game time has come from the right of a front three. He’s also been used in midfield and as a number 10.
The young Costa Rican is clearly finding it tricky in Europe. Furthermore, he was forced to play for the development squad when he first arrived at Estoril.
Now, he is competing for a place in the first team. It’s hard to call him a regular in the team, however, with his boss still seemingly working out what is best for him.
Aguilera signed for Forest in the summer and surely he will go on loan again
Aguilera signed a contract with Forest until 2026. However, it’s hard to imagine him playing in the Premier League or Championship anytime soon.
As a result, the best bet looks like being another loan move away from the club. Estoril will likely need to see an improvement from him first but other clubs could be keen.
It would probably be best for Forest if they tried to loan him out domestically. Letting him go to Costa Rica again makes no sense as the player would remain in his comfort zone.
Aguilera has a lot to prove to Forest at the moment. He has been signed as one for the future, however, and there is some hope for him.
In the short-term, another loan seems almost certain when it comes to the summer transfer window.