Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone emergency abdominal surgery following an injury sustained during Saturday’s dramatic 2-2 draw against Leicester City, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigeria international collided painfully with the goalpost shortly after coming on as a substitute in the 83rd minute.
Although initially treated on the pitch, Awoniyi returned to action visibly in discomfort and struggled to move freely for the remainder of the game.
According to PA News, the surgery — performed late on Monday — was not life-threatening but deemed urgent due to the unusual nature of the injury.
BREAKING: Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi rushed into emergency surgery pic.twitter.com/3xLZUnAYAw
— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) May 12, 2025
The incident reportedly sparked frustration from Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who marched onto the pitch after the final whistle to confront head coach Nuno Espírito Santo over the handling of the situation.
The result leaves Forest’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League hanging by a thread. While the draw confirmed at least a UEFA Conference League place, the club had set their sights higher — with the Europa League or Champions League in view.
Forest now have two matches left to play, including a crunch final-day clash against Chelsea. But even if they take maximum points, their European fate depends on other results involving Aston Villa, Newcastle, or Manchester City.
Awoniyi, who was instrumental for Forest last season, has struggled for form and fitness in this campaign. He has scored just once in 26 Premier League appearances and will now miss the remainder of the season.
The timing of his absence comes as a blow for both club and country, with the Super Eagles also monitoring his condition closely ahead of upcoming international fixtures.