Taiwo Awoniyi Signs New Deal With Nottingham Forest Despite Injury Setbacks

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has signed a new three-year contract extension that will keep him at the City Ground until 2028, putting an end to speculation about his future following a challenging 2024-2025 season.

Taiwo Awoniyi, 26, endured a turbulent campaign marred by injuries and limited game time, but his new deal signals the club’s belief in his long-term value.

Awoniyi expressed deep gratitude to Forest for their unwavering support, especially after a serious abdominal injury sustained in May against Leicester City, which required emergency surgery and led to him being placed in an induced coma.

“This new contract is a fresh motivation for me,” said Awoniyi. “I want to give back to the club and the fans who have been incredibly supportive during my recovery.”

Forest officials hailed the striker’s resilience and determination, emphasizing that the extension reflects his importance in manager Nuno Espírito Santo’s plans.

Note that Forest are gearing up for their first European campaign in nearly 30 years, having secured a UEFA Conference League slot last season.

Awoniyi joined Forest from Union Berlin in 2022 for a then club-record £17 million fee. He quickly became a key figure, scoring crucial goals that helped the club stay in the Premier League during the 2022-2023 season.

However, injuries and inconsistent form have limited his impact in the two seasons since, with just one goal and 893 minutes of league action recorded in the most recent campaign.

Despite the setbacks, Awoniyi has managed 17 goals in 72 league appearances for Forest. The club remains confident he can rediscover his form and once again play a vital role in their ambitions.

His contract renewal follows Forest’s confirmation that fellow Nigerian Ola Aina will also stay at the club next season.

Aina, who joined from Torino on a free transfer in July 2023, impressed in his debut season under Espírito Santo, making 35 league appearances, scoring twice, assisting once, and contributing to 11 clean sheets. Forest activated a one-year extension clause in his contract in May.