Taiwo Awoniyi Speaks After Coming Out of Coma: “I’m Grateful to Be Alive”

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has spoken for the first time after coming out of a coma following emergency surgery on a ruptured intestine. The 27-year-old was injured during a Premier League match against Leicester City after colliding with the goalpost. He tried to continue playing but was later rushed for urgent surgery.

Doctors placed Awoniyi in an induced coma after the operation, and though he is now awake and recovering, he is not expected to play again this season. In a message shared on Instagram, Awoniyi expressed deep gratitude to God, his club, and everyone who supported him during the difficult time.

“This season has been one of the hardest in my career, but I have felt so much love,” he wrote. “By God’s grace, I’m still here, still smiling, and still fighting. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff, and the Forest family. Your visits and support lifted my spirits more than I can explain.”

Awoniyi also thanked fans in Nigeria and around the world for their prayers and kind words. “I feel them and carry them with me every day as I recover,” he added. He ended his message by wishing his teammates the best in their final matches of the season and said he couldn’t wait to return to the pitch.