- Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has regained consciousness after being placed in an induced coma following emergency surgery for a ruptured intestine.
- Nigerian international sustained injury during Premier League match against Leicester City, colliding with goalpost. Initially playing, substituted as condition worsened.
Nottingham Forest striker and Nigerian international Taiwo Awoniyi has regained consciousness after being placed in an induced coma following emergency surgery for a ruptured intestine.
The 27-year-old sustained the serious injury during a Premier League match against Leicester City on Sunday, May 11. Awoniyi collided with the goalpost while attempting to reach a cross. Despite the heavy impact, he initially continued playing but was later substituted as his condition deteriorated.
Medical scans revealed a ruptured intestine, leading to immediate surgery. Awoniyi underwent two operations—one on Monday and another on Wednesday—and was placed in an induced coma between the procedures to stabilize his heart rate and support his recovery.
As of Wednesday, May 14, Awoniyi has been brought out of the coma and is said to be recovering well.
The incident has prompted Nottingham Forest to launch an internal investigation into the handling of the situation, particularly the decision to allow Awoniyi to continue playing after the collision. Club owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly confronted manager Nuno EspÃrito Santo on the pitch, demanding clarity over the medical staff’s response.
Although Awoniyi’s condition is no longer life-threatening, his return to football will depend on his recovery progress. The club has yet to set a timeline for his comeback but remains optimistic about a full recovery.
