Taiwo Awoniyi Gets Emotional as Nottingham Forest Gives Him Heroic Send-Off Ahead of Coventry Move

It was an emotional goodbye for Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi as Nottingham Forest paid tribute to the forward ahead of his expected move to Premier League rivals Coventry City.  

Awoniyi was given a special guard of honour by his Nottingham Forest teammates, staff and supporters during the club’s pre-season friendly against Brest at the City Ground on Sunday. The 29-year-old was visibly emotional as he received the warm reception from the Forest faithful, bringing a touching moment to the end of his four-year journey with the club.

Awoniyi joined Nottingham Forest from Union Berlin in 2022 and went on to make 103 appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing six assists for the club. His time at Forest was also marked by important goals and memorable moments, particularly during the club’s battles to remain in the Premier League. Forest manager Oliver Glasner praised the Nigerian for his character and commitment, describing him as someone who always gave his best for the team.

“He always gives 100% for the team,” Glasner said while explaining why the club felt Awoniyi deserved such a farewell.  

Awoniyi is now closing in on a move to newly promoted Coventry City, with reports putting the transfer fee at around £17 million. He is expected to undergo the final formalities before completing the switch. Coventry, managed by former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard, will be hoping the Nigerian striker can bring Premier League experience and goals to their squad as they prepare for their return to the top flight.

For Awoniyi, however, the immediate moment was about saying goodbye to a club where he spent four years. And judging by the emotional reception at the City Ground, Forest fans certainly made sure he knew just how much he meant to them.