In what he described as one of the most difficult chapters of his football career, Nigerian international Taiwo Awoniyi has spoken for the first time since undergoing emergency surgery that left him in a medically induced coma earlier this month.
The 27-year-old Nottingham Forest striker broke his silence in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday, where he thanked fans, teammates, and well-wishers around the world for their support during his medical ordeal.
“This season has been one of the most difficult of my career,” Awoniyi wrote. “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’s heartfelt message came just a week after a life-threatening abdominal injury during a Premier League match nearly claimed his life. He was injured on May 12 during Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City at the City Ground. While attempting to connect with a cross from teammate Anthony Elanga, Awoniyi collided with the goalpost in what initially appeared to be a minor knock.
Though he briefly received medical attention and continued playing, the full extent of the injury only became clear the following day. Forest’s medical team rushed him for emergency surgery after scans revealed serious internal damage.
In a statement released shortly after the procedure, Nottingham Forest confirmed the seriousness of the situation.
“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 statement read.
Unbeknown to the public at the time, Awoniyi was placed in a medically induced coma following surgery — a precautionary measure to aid his recovery. The club kept the matter discreet until manager Nuno Espírito Santo confirmed it during a press briefing on May 16.
“We are concerned, but it is positive,” Nuno said at the time. “The situation he went through has been hard on us.”
Awoniyi’s message on Sunday offered a glimpse into the emotional and physical toll of the experience. Yet, he remained focused on gratitude and hope.
“To my teammates, coaches, staff, and the entire Forest family, thank you for your well wishes,” he wrote. “Seeing you all on your visit to the hospital lifted my spirits more than words can say.”
The Ilorin-born forward also sent a message of encouragement to his team, who are in the final stretch of a high-stakes Premier League season.
“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.”
Awoniyi’s injury came at a crucial time for Nottingham Forest, who were pushing for a spot in European competition. The draw against Leicester — where the injury occurred — cost them two valuable points and caused significant unrest within the club hierarchy.
Forest’s Greek owner, Evangelos Marinakis, reportedly stormed the pitch after the final whistle to confront manager Nuno Espírito Santo, expressing anger over the decision to keep Awoniyi on the pitch despite his visible pain. The incident highlighted growing tensions in the club’s management as they approach a decisive end to the season.
Currently seventh on the Premier League table, Nottingham Forest remain just one point behind fifth place, with matches against West Ham and Chelsea still to come. While a Champions League spot seems out of reach, the club has already secured qualification for the UEFA Conference League — their first European appearance in nearly three decades.
Their last appearance in European football was during the 1995/96 season, a distant memory now rekindled by the current squad’s impressive campaign.
Despite missing several matches this season due to various injuries, Awoniyi has played a key role in Forest’s resurgence. Known for his powerful runs and sharp finishing, the former Union Berlin forward scored six goals and provided three assists in 17 league appearances before his latest setback.
For Nigerian fans, Awoniyi’s recovery holds additional significance. He is considered a vital asset to the Super Eagles squad ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers. His fitness remains a concern for national team selectors, who are hoping he can recover fully in time to join the team for the crucial fixtures scheduled later this year.
In his message, Awoniyi also took time to express heartfelt thanks to supporters back home in Nigeria.
“To my family, friends, and football fans, thank you for the support,” he said. “And to everyone back home in Nigeria who has checked in on me, prayed for me, and left kind words, thank you.”
“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.”
Awoniyi’s resilience and humility have inspired many, both within and outside the football world. His story is a reminder of the physical risks professional athletes face and the importance of swift medical response in times of crisis.
As he continues to recover, his fans — from Nottingham to Nigeria — remain united in support and hopeful for his return to full strength.
With just two games left to wrap up what has already been a season full of drama, injury scares, and surprise results, Nottingham Forest’s players will no doubt carry the spirit of their recovering teammate with them as they battle to finish strong.
Awoniyi may be off the pitch, but his presence, courage, and words of support are helping to drive his club forward — a true reflection of leadership even in adversity.
