“Hard on Us”: Nuno Espirito Santo Shares Emotional Update on Taiwo Awoniyi’s Recovery After Life-Threatening Injury

Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has offered a deeply emotional update on the condition of Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who remains in hospital following a ruptured intestine sustained during last Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City.

The Super Eagles forward was placed in an induced coma after undergoing emergency abdominal surgery, a shocking turn of events that has left the club and fans holding their breath.

“He is on observation now. He is recovering.
We still have to wait for the doctors to allow visits. His family are there. We are concerned, but we are positive,” Nuno told reporters during his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Awoniyi had attempted to carry on playing after the collision with the post, despite visible pain — a move that reflects the kind of warrior spirit the 26-year-old has always displayed.

✍🏾 Opinion: Awoniyi’s Scare Is a Reminder — Football Is Just a Game, Life Is the Bigger Battle

Injuries are part of football, but what happened to Taiwo Awoniyi reminds us how fragile life truly is, even for elite athletes. The image of him trying to fight on despite such a devastating internal injury is both heartbreaking and heroic.

This isn’t just a fitness issue — this is a life-threatening health crisis that shook the Nottingham Forest locker room to its core. Nuno’s visible concern and his words, “It has been hard on us,” show that this isn’t just about points or positions — it’s about people, pain, and prayers.

Taiwo Awoniyi is not just a player; he’s a symbol of resilience, humility, and hope for both Nigeria and Forest fans. And in this moment, the entire football world stands behind him.

Keep Taiwo in your thoughts.
Have you ever seen a player push through pain with such determination?
Drop a message of support. He’ll feel it, even from a hospital bed.