Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has returned to full training with Nottingham Forest, giving the Premier League side a major boost ahead of the 2025/26 season. The 27-year-old had been sidelined since May due to a serious abdominal injury that required a complex two-stage surgical procedure.
Awoniyi’s injury came at a crucial point during the final stretch of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, leaving Forest without one of their most reliable attacking outlets. The forward had been enjoying a steady season before the setback, contributing vital goals and assists that helped the club maintain its top-flight status.
Nottingham Forest confirmed on Tuesday that Awoniyi participated in a full training session with the first team — his first since undergoing surgery. The session marks a significant step in his recovery, as the medical team continues to monitor his fitness levels and gradually reintegrates him into matchday action.
Road to Recovery
Awoniyi’s return has been long-awaited by both fans and club officials. Following his surgery in May, he was briefly hospitalised and then began an extended rehabilitation program supervised by the club’s medical and fitness departments. His dedication to recovery, combined with medical support, has allowed him to return slightly ahead of schedule.
During his absence, Forest’s attack struggled for consistency, often lacking the physical presence and pressing ability that Awoniyi brings to the frontline. His strength, movement, and experience make him a unique asset in the squad, especially as Forest gear up for what is expected to be another competitive season.
Though back in training, club sources say the Nigerian international will be eased back into action to avoid any setbacks. His match fitness will be assessed over the coming weeks, with the possibility of featuring in upcoming pre-season friendlies depending on his physical response.
Read also: ‘I felt the love, I’m grateful to be here’, Awoniyi says after surgery
Taiwo Awoniyi has become a fan favourite since joining Forest in 2022 from Union Berlin. His strong performances, including crucial goals in big fixtures, have played a major part in the club’s efforts to remain in the Premier League over the past two seasons.
On the international stage, Awoniyi is also a valuable member of the Super Eagles. His return to fitness is timely, with Nigeria looking ahead to crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the latter stages of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Nigeria manager Finidi George will be closely monitoring his recovery, hoping the striker can regain full fitness in time for selection. Awoniyi’s ability to combine physicality with goal-scoring instinct makes him a unique option in the national team’s attacking plans.
Pre-season preparations continue
Forest began their pre-season campaign last weekend with a 0-0 draw against Chesterfield, highlighting the need for greater attacking sharpness. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo has been working to strengthen the squad and is expected to welcome Awoniyi’s return as part of his tactical setup.
The club is set to play several more warm-up matches over the coming weeks, including tougher tests against Championship and European opposition. Whether or not Awoniyi features in those fixtures remains uncertain, but his return to training is a clear signal that he could be ready in time for the Premier League opener next month.
As Forest continue to build toward the new season, Awoniyi’s return is a timely morale boost for both players and fans. If he can return to full match fitness without setbacks, the Nigerian forward could once again prove pivotal in Forest’s bid to climb the table and avoid another relegation scrap.
