Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has spoken out for the first time after undergoing emergency surgery for an abdominal injury that led to him being placed in an induced coma earlier this month.
In an Instagram post on Sunday, the Nigerian forward opened up about his experience, describing the 2024/25 season as one of the most challenging of his football journey.
“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,” Awoniyi shared.
He extended his appreciation to his teammates, coaches, club staff, and the Nottingham Forest community for their encouragement throughout his recovery.
“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,” the Ilorin-born footballer added.
Awoniyi also sent his support to the team as they approach the final stages of the Premier League season, stating, “Wishing the boys the very best in these last two games. Keep believing and keep pushing. I’m with you all the way, and I can’t wait to be back out there with the boys doing what I love.”
He further acknowledged the love he received from supporters and his countrymen.
“To my family, friends, and football fans, thank you for the support. And to everyone back home in Nigeria who has checked in on me, prayed for me, and left kind words, thank you,” he noted.
“I see them. I feel them. And I carry them with me every day as I recover. Come on, you Reds. Still fighting, still smiling. #Godisthegreatest.”
Emergency Surgery and Coma
The health issue arose on 12 May during Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City at the City Ground.
Awoniyi suffered an abdominal injury after colliding with the goalpost while attempting to finish a cross from Anthony Elanga. Despite receiving treatment, he tried to continue playing.
The following day, Forest’s medical team identified the seriousness of the injury, prompting immediate surgery. The club issued a statement confirming the development.
“The Club can confirm Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone urgent surgery following an abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City. Everyone at Nottingham Forest sends their best wishes to Taiwo. The club will provide further updates when appropriate,” the statement read.
It later emerged that he was placed in a medically induced coma during his recovery. Head coach Nuno Espírito Santo addressed the issue on 16 May during a press conference, expressing how it impacted the squad.
“We are concerned, but it is positive… The situation he went through has been hard on us,” he said.
Forest’s European Outlook
The incident compounded an already tough result for Forest, who dropped points in the race for a Champions League spot with the draw against Leicester.
Owner Evangelos Marinakis was seen entering the pitch at full-time to confront manager Nuno regarding the decision to keep Awoniyi on the field, despite his apparent discomfort. Marinakis was said to be unhappy that the striker continued playing after medical consultation.
Forest, currently seventh in the league standings, are now trailing the top five by a single point with two games left — against West Ham and Chelsea.
Regardless of the Champions League race, Forest have secured a UEFA Conference League spot, marking their first European qualification since the 1995/96 season.
What you should know
Taiwo Awoniyi has finally broken his silence after undergoing emergency surgery and a coma-inducing procedure for an abdominal injury.
While he recovers, he has expressed immense gratitude to supporters and reaffirmed his commitment to returning stronger. His team, Nottingham Forest, continues to push for a European finish despite the incident’s emotional toll.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM VERILY NEWS
