Taiwo Awoniyi, Nottingham Forest’s striker, was rushed to the hospital for urgent surgery on an abdominal injury, according to reports on Monday.
The Nigerian forward sustained the injury during Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City at the City Ground. Awoniyi collided with a post while attempting to finish a cross from Anthony Elanga. Although he initially tried to continue after receiving on-field treatment, the severity of the injury became evident only the following day.
Medical staff later discovered the full extent of the damage and sent him for surgery, which, according to sources, was not considered life-threatening.
“The Club can confirm Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone urgent surgery following an abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City,” Nottingham Forest said via a statement on their official X handle.
“Everyone at Nottingham Forest sends their best wishes to Taiwo. The Club will provide further updates when appropriate.”
The incident sparked a furious response from club owner Evangelos Marinakis, who entered the pitch and confronted manager Nuno Espirito Santo after the match. Marinakis expressed frustration over Awoniyi remaining on the field despite apparent concerns from the medical team.
The draw proved costly for Forest’s Champions League ambitions. With just two matches remaining — against West Ham and Chelsea — Nuno’s seventh-placed side sits one point behind the Premier League’s top five, which secure Champions League qualification.
Nevertheless, Forest is guaranteed a spot in the UEFA Conference League, marking their first return to European competition since the 1995-96 season.
What you should know
Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury comes at a crucial time for Nottingham Forest, whose push for a Champions League spot has been derailed.
While his condition is not life-threatening, the striker’s absence could impact Forest’s final push for European qualification.
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