Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma following emergency abdominal surgery, according to reports on Tuesday. The Nigeria international, 27, sustained the injury during Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Leicester City.
Awoniyi collided with a goalpost late in the game while attempting to score and received several minutes of treatment. Despite being in visible discomfort, he returned to the pitch as Forest had used all their substitutions. The severity of his condition became clear on Monday, prompting immediate hospital admission and surgery.
Sources indicate that the induced coma is not due to a life-threatening condition but is intended to assist recovery by limiting movement and stabilizing his heart rate.
Forest confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that Awoniyi is “recovering well.” However, attention also turned to club owner Evangelos Marinakis, who was seen in a heated exchange with manager Nuno Espirito Santo after the match.
Addressing the incident, Forest issued a statement defending Marinakis’ actions, attributing them to his emotional investment in the welfare of players.
“His reaction was one of deep care, responsibility, and emotional investment in one of our own,” the club said, explaining that Marinakis had been distressed watching Awoniyi play through pain.
The club added, “It was instinctive, human, and a reflection of just how much this team and its people mean to him.”
Forest are currently pushing for Champions League qualification and will be hoping for Awoniyi’s swift and full recovery.
