Taiwo Awoniyi: farewell to a cult hero

Few players have had the impact of Taiwo Awoniyi in recent years, even if he's not been as prolific as his popularity suggests

Club legend? Not quite. Cult hero? Absolutely.

Taiwo Awoniyi scored our first Premier League goal this century. His goal against Arsenal saved us from relegation. He literally risked his life trying to score a goal that could've put us into the Champions League.

Yesterday, on the verge of a £17m move to Coventry City, Awoniyi was given a guard of honour during the preseason game against Brest at the City Ground; a heartwarming tribute very few players receive.

Our club record signing when he arrived from Union Berlin in June 2022 — for almost the same fee he's departing for — was the first new player for Steve Cooper's newly promoted side.

Of the 22 incoming transfers that summer, only Awoniyi, Neco Williams and Morgan Gibbs-White remain — Omar Richards, having never played a competitive match for the Reds, is expected to join Greek club Aris on a three-year contract.

Awoniyi's record might not be prolific — although 23 goals in 103 appearances isn't bad — but it could've been a lot more were it not for injuries. And, frustratingly, every time it looked like he was in great form, something would happen.

A groin injury kept him out for stretches in his first and second seasons with Forest and then the ruptured intestine against Leicester City in May 2025 saw him put into an induced coma.

But his attitude has remained the same throughout, which explains his popularity with both teammates and fans. His smile is infectious, his determination is formidable and he always, always gives everything.

Some of his goals have been incredible, hugely important or just demonstrating a striker's instincts... a lot of the time he was entirely unpredictable, which confused fans but also caused chaos in opposition boxes.

Through all of Forest's many, many players who arrived since he signed, very few have made the impact that Awoniyi has — and we bid him a fond farewell. Go well, Taiwo.