Taiwo Awoniyi Thanks Fans and Family After Surgery
Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has shared a heartfelt message of gratitude and resilience after undergoing emergency surgery for a life-threatening injury.
The Nottingham Forest forward suffered a ruptured intestine after colliding with the goalpost during Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City.
Initially treated on the pitch, Awoniyi attempted to continue playing despite the injury but was later substituted due to his inability to move properly. The club had already exhausted all available substitutions.
Following the match, Awoniyi’s condition worsened, and he was placed in an induced coma before undergoing urgent surgery.
Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo confirmed that the striker remains hospitalized and will continue his recovery for several days.
In a public statement, Awoniyi reflected on the challenges of the season and expressed deep appreciation for the support he’s received:
“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, still fighting, still smiling, and in good spirits.
“To my teammates, coaches, staff, and the entire Forest family—thank you for your well wishes. Your visit to the hospital lifted my spirits more than words can say. Wishing the boys the very best in these last two games. Keep believing, keep pushing. I’m with you all the way and can’t wait to be back out there doing what I love.
“To my family, friends, and fans back home in Nigeria—thank you for the prayers, the kind words, and the support. I see them, I feel them, and I carry them with me every day as I recover. Come on you Reds.”
Ahead of Forest’s match against West Ham, the team paid tribute to Awoniyi by warming up in custom white shirts bearing the message, “We’re all with you Taiwo.”
After Morgan Gibbs-White scored, he held up Awoniyi’s No. 9 jersey in a touching show of solidarity.
Taiwo Awoniyi Thanks Fans and Family After Surgery