‘One Of The Most Difficult Seasons,’ Awoniyi Says After Surgery

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has broken his silence following emergency surgery for an abdominal injury that saw him placed in an induced coma earlier this month.

In an Instagram post shared on Sunday, the Nigerian international reflected on his ordeal, describing the 2024/25 season as one of the toughest periods of his football career.

“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 wrote.

He expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, club staff, and the entire Nottingham Forest community for their support during 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 striker stated.

Awoniyi also shared his encouragement to the squad as they head into their final two Premier League matches, saying, “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.”

The 27-year-old thanked his fans and his homeland for the care and support.

“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 said.

“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.”