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Taiwo Awoniyi breaks silence on his career-threatening injury, thanks fans and Nottingham Forest family
Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has spoken publicly for the first time since suffering a serious injury during a Premier League clash against Leicester City.
The incident, which occurred after a collision with the goalpost, left fans and teammates deeply concerned for the Nigerian forward’s well-being.
The match, which ended in a 2-2 draw, dealt a blow to Forest’s hopes of securing UEFA Champions League qualification for the 2025/26 season.
But the greater worry centered on Awoniyi’s health after he was rushed to the hospital and placed in an induced coma following emergency abdominal surgery.
Taking to his official Instagram page on Monday, May 19, 2025, Awoniyi shared an emotional message of gratitude:
“This season has been one of the most difficult of my career but through it all, I have felt the love. With the grace of God, I am grateful to still be here, to still be fighting, to still be smiling, and to be in good spirits.”
He went on to thank the Nottingham Forest community:
“To my teammates, coaches, staff and the entire Forest family, thank you for your well wishes. Seeing you all on your visit to the hospital lifted my spirits more than words can say.”
Awoniyi underwent a two-stage surgical procedure to repair a severe abdominal injury. The first stage was performed on Monday, May 12, followed by a brief period in a medically induced coma on Tuesday to monitor his progress. The second stage, which involved wound closure, was successfully completed on Wednesday.
Awoniyi’s message has drawn widespread support from fans, fellow players, and the football community at large, with many praising his courage and determination to return stronger.
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