Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma following emergency surgery for a serious abdominal injury sustained during last weekend’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Leicester City.
The Nigeria international suffered the injury after crashing into the goalpost while attempting to convert a cross from teammate Anthony Elanga. Despite receiving medical attention on the pitch and attempting to continue, he was eventually substituted. Further medical evaluation revealed the need for urgent surgery, which was carried out on Monday night.
Initial reports indicated the surgery had been successful, but the complexity of the procedure required it to be continued into Wednesday. Due to complications, doctors were unable to complete it on Tuesday, leading to Awoniyi being placed in a medically induced coma as a precaution.
In an official statement, Nottingham Forest confirmed that Awoniyi is “recovering well so far” from the ordeal.
“The seriousness of his injury is a powerful reminder of the physical risks in the game, and why a player’s health and well-being must always come first,” the club said.
The statement also addressed the emotional post-match reaction of club owner Evangelos Marinakis, who stormed onto the pitch to confront manager Nuno Espirito Santo. The club defended Marinakis’ actions, citing his deep concern for Awoniyi’s condition and his sense of family within the team.
“To Evangelos Marinakis, this isn’t just a football club — it’s family,” the statement added.
“His reaction was one of deep care, responsibility, and emotional investment in one of our own.”
Awoniyi, 27, has made 32 appearances this season, scoring two goals for Forest. The club has promised to provide further updates on his condition in due course.
