Nottingham Forest striker and Nigeria international, Taiwo Awoniyi, has undergone emergency surgery following an abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Leicester City at the City Ground.
Awoniyi collided with the goalpost while attempting to convert a cross from teammate Anthony Elanga midway through the match.
Despite receiving several minutes of treatment from medical staff, the forward tried to play on, but was later substituted.
Forest’s medical team reportedly discovered the full extent of the injury on Monday, prompting urgent surgical intervention.
Sources close to the club confirmed that while the surgery was serious, it was not life-threatening, and the player is expected to begin recovery soon.
The incident led to visible frustration from Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who took the rare step of confronting head coach Nuno Espirito Santo on the pitch immediately after the final whistle.
Marinakis reportedly questioned why Awoniyi was not withdrawn earlier, expressing concern over the medical judgment made during stoppage time.
Sunday’s draw further complicated Forest’s bid for Champions League qualification. Currently sitting seventh in the Premier League table, Forest trail the top five by a single point with just two matches remaining — against West Ham and Chelsea.
The top five teams are guaranteed Champions League spots under the league’s current coefficient.
Nevertheless, Forest have secured a UEFA Conference League berth, marking their return to European competition for the first time since the 1995-96 season.
Awoniyi’s injury is a blow for both club and country, with the striker playing a vital role in Forest’s attacking lineup and Nigeria’s plans for upcoming international fixtures.
Forest fans will hope for a speedy recovery as the club looks to finish the season on a high, while club management faces scrutiny over player welfare decisions made on match day.