Taiwo Awoniyi: Super Eagles striker faces new “challenge” at Nottingham Forest

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi struggled to get playing time at Nottingham Forest last season, but it could even get worse next season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Awoniyi has had a topsy-turvy stay at Nottingham Forest since arriving from Union Berlin two years ago.

His time at the club has been marred by injuries, and it eventually cost him his status as a starter last season.

The Super Eagles striker had to play second fiddle to New Zealand striker Chris Wood, who contributed 20 goals and three assists in 36 Premier League appearances.

Awoniyi was limited to just 32 appearances across all competitions last season. Most of his appearances were even off the bench.

After Wood's brilliance last season, Awoniyi would definitely be the second-choice striker at Nottingham Forest.

But he would be sure to get some game time due to their involvement in the UEFA Conference League if he is fit.

However, the Super Eagles star now has a new challenge. This is as the Tricky Trees announced the signing of Brazilian striker Igor Jesus from Botafogo for €11.6 million on Saturday.

A message from Igor. pic.twitter.com/aggzabIzLM

— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) July 5, 2025

The 24-year-old Brazilian who can operate as a striker or a winger contributed 17 goals and six assists in 59 appearances for Botafogo.

Jesus' arrival at Nottingham Forest presents a new challenge for Awoniyi. The Super Eagles star will have to prove to coach Nuno Espirito Santo that he is better than the Brazilian and Wood.

If Awoniyi fails to do that, his game time at Nottingham Forest will be badly limited next season, as he risks becoming the third-choice striker.

Will Taiwo Awoniyi leave Nottingham Forest?

Now that there is a new competition for the striker position, there is a possibility that Taiwo Awoniyi will leave Nottingham Forest.

However, no club has expressed interest in acquiring his services, which is not surprising, especially after his struggles last season and his frequent injury problems.

Things could change quickly though. Awoniyi still has two two years on his contract, with a €16 million valuation on Transfermarkt.

If the Super Eagles star does not stay fit next season and impact games with likely meager minutes, the Tricky Trees would try to push him out and get as much money possible from a sale.