In the high-octane world of the Premier League, few stories are as compelling as that of Taiwo Awoniyi. The 28-year-old Nigerian forward has become the symbol of perseverance at Nottingham Forest. After overcoming a harrowing, life-threatening abdominal injury in 2025 that saw him placed in an induced coma, Awoniyi has made a miraculous return to the pitch. Just today, he silenced Stamford Bridge with a clinical brace in a 3–1 victory over Chelsea, moving his side six points clear of the relegation zone and proving that his instincts in front of goal remain as sharp as ever.
Whether you are tracking his recovery journey or his rise from the humble streets of Ilorin, here is everything you need to know about Taiwo Awoniyi.
2026 Update: The Miracle Return
Awoniyi’s 2025/26 season has been defined by his incredible recovery from a serious abdominal injury sustained in May 2025.
The Injury: On May 11, 2025, Awoniyi suffered a severe internal injury during a match against Leicester City. He underwent urgent surgery and spent several days in an induced coma in the ICU.
The Comeback: He returned to action in October 2025. While he initially served as an impact sub to manage his fitness, he has regained his starting spot under Vitor Pereira.Current Form: In his most recent outing (May 4, 2026), he scored two goals against Chelsea, bringing his tally for this campaign to 4 goals in limited minutes as he continues his post-injury resurgence.
Career Stats & Liverpool History
Awoniyi’s path to the Premier League was famously unconventional, involving a long stint as a "loan army" soldier for Liverpool.
| Club | Period | Stats/Role |
| Liverpool | 2015–2021 | Signed for £400k. Spent 6 seasons on loan across Europe (Germany, Netherlands, Belgium) due to work permit issues. |
| Union Berlin | 2021–2022 | The breakout. Scored 20 goals in his final season, becoming a cult hero in the Bundesliga. |
| Nottingham Forest | 2022–Present | Signed for a then-club record £17M. Has become Forest's primary goal threat when fit. |
Personal Life and Faith
Awoniyi is as well-known for his character and faith as he is for his strength on the ball.
Religion: He is a devout Christian. He frequently credits his faith and "the grace of God" for his survival and recovery from his recent health crisis.
Wife & Family: He married his longtime partner, Taiye Jesudun, in June 2018. The couple has a son, Emmanuel. Taiwo also has a twin sister, Kehinde.
Nationality: Nigerian. Born in Ilorin, he was a standout for the Nigeria U17 team that won the 2013 World Cup.
Salary and Contract
Weekly Wage: Estimated at £50,000 per week ($63,000).
Contract Expiry: His current deal with Nottingham Forest runs until June 2027.Market Value: Despite his injury history, his value remains high (estimated around £25M - £30M) due to his proven scoring record in the English top flight.