Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone emergency surgery after sustaining an abdominal injury during Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Leicester City.
The Nigerian forward was forced off the pitch during the match and has since had an operation to address the issue, the club confirmed in a statement shared across its official platforms.
“Nottingham Forest confirms that Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone emergency surgery following an abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City,” the club said.
While the nature of the surgery has been confirmed, Forest has not disclosed how long the 26-year-old is expected to be sidelined. The timing of the injury marks a significant setback for both Awoniyi and the club, with the striker having played an integral role throughout the campaign.
A key figure in the Super Eagles national team, Awoniyi has endured an injury-disrupted season that ended with this latest blow. The forward had been working his way back to full match fitness in recent months and was beginning to find form for Forest when the injury struck.
The draw against Leicester was a critical fixture for Forest, who have been battling to secure their Premier League status. Awoniyi’s early withdrawal from the match due to discomfort left a noticeable void in the team’s attacking setup, and the club’s medical team acted swiftly to address the issue, resulting in surgical intervention.
Although Forest have yet to provide a clear timeline for his return, they expressed their support for the player in the official update. “All of Nottingham Forest sends its best wishes for Taiwo’s recovery. The club will provide further information in due course,” the statement added.
The absence of Awoniyi poses a considerable challenge for Forest as they navigate the remainder of their fixtures. Known for his physical presence and sharp instincts in front of goal, the Nigerian has contributed important goals and performances during his time at the City Ground.
Having joined Forest from Union Berlin in the summer of 2022, Awoniyi quickly adapted to the demands of the Premier League. Despite recurring injury concerns, he has remained a fan favourite due to his determination, work rate, and impact on key matches.
This latest setback will undoubtedly be frustrating for both the player and the coaching staff, particularly given the timing near the season’s conclusion. It also raises questions about his availability for Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures, although national team officials are likely to wait for further assessments from Forest before making any decisions.
Support has poured in from fans and teammates alike, with many taking to social media to wish Awoniyi a speedy and complete recovery. Forest’s medical department will continue to monitor his progress and is expected to release more detailed updates as he begins his rehabilitation.
For now, Nottingham Forest will have to adjust their attacking strategy in Awoniyi’s absence as they aim to finish the season on a strong note.
