Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest forward, Taiwo Awoniyi, is said to be in an induced coma and receiving intensive care following emergency surgery for a serious abdominal injury.
The 27-year-old Nigerian international collided with a post during Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Leicester and, after receiving treatment, briefly returned to play before being substituted.
Forest announced on Tuesday, May 13, that the striker underwent urgent surgery after scans on Monday revealed the severity of the injury, prompting immediate hospitalization.
Mail Sport reports that early indications suggest the procedure was successful. Given the complexity of the injury, doctors anticipated completing the operation today.
Such injuries can, in rare cases, be life-threatening. However, Forest stated that Awoniyi is ‘recovering well.’
The club’s update included criticism of their medical team.
Awoniyi could not be substituted as Forest had already used all available changes, replacing Elliot Anderson with Jota Silva. Despite attempting to continue, the forward struggled to move effectively as Forest pushed for a late winner to strengthen their Champions League hopes.
With the team reduced to 10 men in the closing stages, owner Evangelos Marinakis appeared to confront coach Nuno Espirito Santo after the final whistle.
The club later released a statement addressing the incident.
It read: ‘The severity of Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury underscores the physical dangers in football and why player safety must always be prioritized. For our owner, Evangelos Marinakis, this club is family, and he ensures this ethos is upheld by all.
‘His reaction stemmed from genuine concern and emotional investment in one of our players. He saw the situation not just as an isolated event but as a reflection of the team’s unity and values.
‘His leadership is demonstrated through action, not just words. When he noticed our player in distress, he felt compelled to intervene.
‘It was a human response, driven by his deep connection to the team. He would act no differently if faced with a similar situation again.
‘There was no altercation with Nuno or anyone else, on or off the pitch. Our collective frustration was directed at the medical team’s decision to allow the player to continue.
‘We urge former coaches, players, and public figures to refrain from hasty judgments and misinformation, especially without full context.
‘Irresponsible outrage for social media engagement benefits no one, least of all the injured player. We call on influential voices to prioritize player welfare over sensationalism. Let empathy guide discourse.’