Taiwo Awoniyi in induced coma after surgery for abdominal injury

• Taiwo Awoniyi was placed in induced coma after undergoing surgery for abdominal injury sustained against Leicester
• The Nigerian striker collided with the goalpost during Nottingham Forest’s 2–2 draw on Sunday, May 11
• The English club said he is "recovering well", while the club reaffirmed its focus on player well-being

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma following surgery for an abdominal injury sustained during Nottingham Forest’s Premier League clash with Leicester City.

According to a BBC report, the 26-year-old forward was intubated on Tuesday evening, May 13, following the first phase of the medical procedure. An induced coma is a medically controlled state of unconsciousness used to aid the healing process by reducing bodily stress and allowing targeted treatment.

Awoniyi suffered the injury on Sunday, after colliding with the post while attempting to score in Forest’s 2–2 draw against Leicester at the City Ground. He underwent surgery the next day and remains in hospital for ongoing treatment.

On Tuesday, May 13, Nottingham Forest confirmed that the Nigerian international is “recovering well” from the operation, though the full extent of the injury and recovery timeline remains uncertain.

Following the incident, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly walked onto the pitch to express concern to manager Nuno Espírito Santo regarding the handling of Awoniyi’s condition during and after the match.

In a statement, the club described the incident as a “powerful reminder” of the physical risks in professional football and reiterated its commitment to player health and safety as a top priority.

Taiwo Awoniyi opens up on his future after recent transfer speculations

Earlier, TheRadar reported that Taiwo Awoniyi responded to growing rumours linking him with a move away from Nottingham Forest during the winter transfer window, amidst his frustration over limited playing time.

The Nigerian striker, who joined Forest from Union Berlin with the expectation of becoming a regular starter, has found himself on the sidelines due to persistent injury issues and a lack of form.

Awoniyi’s underwhelming return, scoring just once in 19 appearances across all competitions, had led to increased speculation about his future at the club, with reports suggesting that West Ham United were among the clubs interested in securing his services.