Nottingham, UK — Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo has confirmed that Nigerian international Taiwo Awoniyi is under close medical observation following a serious abdominal injury sustained during a Premier League match.
Awoniyi, 27, was placed in an induced coma after undergoing two stages of emergency surgery to treat internal injuries suffered during the final minutes of Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City last Sunday. The striker collided with the goalpost while attempting to meet a cross from teammate Anthony Elanga, who was later ruled offside — a decision delayed due to current offside protocols.
Speaking ahead of Forest’s upcoming clash against West Ham, Nuno described the incident as deeply troubling. “He went to surgery, surgery went well — thank God,” he said. “He’s under observation now and recovering, but we are still waiting for clearance from the doctors to allow visits.”
The Forest boss expressed both concern and optimism, noting that Awoniyi will remain in the hospital for at least five days. “We are concerned, but it is positive. He is in good hands and surrounded by family — which is what he really needs,” Nuno added.
Forest defender Ola Aina weighed in on the incident, stating that the injury “would never have happened” if the assistant referee had flagged for offside earlier.
Awoniyi, who joined Nottingham Forest from Union Berlin in 2022, has scored 19 goals in 85 appearances and earned 10 international caps for Nigeria since his debut in 2021. Nuno praised his character, calling him “a wonderful boy” who has endured a challenging season.
“The players are constantly checking on him. I hope he can join us soon — even just to be around the team,” Nuno concluded.
The club continues to monitor his condition and remains hopeful for a full recovery.
By Makinde oyinkansola| May 18, 2025
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