Manu Garba Warns Awoniyi Against Leaving Nottingham Forest
Former Golden Eaglets coach Manu Garba has advised Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi to stay at Nottingham Forest beyond this season, despite rumours linking him with a move away.
Awoniyi, who was part of Garba’s 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup-winning squad, has found it hard to get regular playing time this season. Injuries and the good form of fellow striker Chris Wood have made it difficult for him to get back into the starting team.
Reports suggest that Nottingham Forest are looking to sign another striker in the next transfer window, with Bournemouth’s Evanilson mentioned as a target. If Evanilson joins, Awoniyi could fall further down in the pecking order under manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
However, Garba believes that Awoniyi should stay and fight for his place, especially as Forest are close to qualifying for European football next season.
Speaking to All Nigeria Soccer, Garba said, “He’s had a couple of injuries. Normally, when you’re coming back and another player is doing well, it’s not easy to get back into the team.”
The experienced youth coach also warned against switching clubs too often. Awoniyi has already played for eight clubs since becoming a professional, including Liverpool, FSV Frankfurt, NEC, Mouscron, Gent, Mainz, Union Berlin, and now Nottingham Forest.
“For me, changing clubs too often isn’t ideal. It’s better for him to stay at Nottingham Forest,” Garba said. “They have a good chance of playing in the Champions League or Europa League next season. My advice is to stick with Forest — unless the club decides otherwise.”
Awoniyi has scored 19 goals in 81 matches for Forest in all competitions. His current contract with the club runs until the summer of 2027, with two years remaining as of July 1.
