With the recent developments at Nottingham Forest, the situation for Taiwo Awoniyi has become more complex. Following the club’s signing of French forward Arnaud Kalimuendo, Awoniyi is now fourth in the pecking order of strikers. This has led to speculation about his future, with rumors linking him to other clubs like West Ham and Ajax. However, it’s also been reported that he recently signed a three-year contract extension, indicating a commitment to the club despite his reduced role.
Nottingham Forest’s Strikers
Nottingham Forest’s current group of strikers includes:
- Arnaud Kalimuendo: The new signing from Stade Rennais, who had a strong season in Ligue 1, scoring 18 goals and providing four assists in 34 appearances in the 2024/25 season.
- Chris Wood: The All Whites forward who started the new season in fine form, scoring a double in the opening match against Brentford. He was the club’s top scorer last season.
- Igor Jesus: Another striker in the squad who is ahead of Awoniyi in the pecking order.
- Taiwo Awoniyi: The Nigerian forward, who has been hampered by injury and fitness problems. He had an unimpressive 2024/25 season, making only three starts in 26 appearances and scoring one goal.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Taiwo Awoniyi vs. Arnaud Kalimuendo
Taiwo Awoniyi: The Nigerian forward has faced a challenging period due to injuries, including a serious abdominal injury that required emergency surgery and a medically induced coma. In the 2024/25 season, he made 26 appearances with only three starts, scoring one goal in 400 minutes of play. His recent injury history and lack of regular playing time put him at a disadvantage compared to the new signing.
Arnaud Kalimuendo: The 23-year-old French forward arrives with momentum, coming off his best goalscoring season with 18 goals and four assists for Rennes. His ability to play centrally and out wide provides versatility. The club’s significant investment in him, a reported £26 million deal, shows they view him as a key part of their attacking plans.
Taiwo Awoniyi vs. Chris Wood
Taiwo Awoniyi: While Awoniyi has had moments of brilliance, his recent season was less productive, with a single goal to his name. Injuries have significantly disrupted his form and consistency.
Chris Wood: Wood finished as the club’s top scorer last season and has started the new campaign strongly with two goals in the opening match. He has established himself as the primary striker and a trusted option for the manager, Nuno Espirito Santo. His form and consistency have kept him ahead in the pecking order.
Taiwo Awoniyi vs. Igor Jesus
Taiwo Awoniyi: Awoniyi’s struggles with injury have meant he’s dropped behind Igor Jesus in the hierarchy.
Igor Jesus: Jesus is a lesser-known quantity but is currently ahead of Awoniyi. There isn’t extensive statistical data available for a detailed comparison, but his position in the pecking order suggests he’s seen as a more reliable option at present.
Stay or Go?
Given the current situation, Taiwo Awoniyi faces a difficult decision.
Arguments to Stay and Fight
- New Contract and Club’s Faith: Awoniyi recently signed a three-year contract extension, which signals the club’s faith in his potential and resilience. This offers him stability and a platform for recovery.
- Opportunity in Multiple Competitions: With Forest having qualified for the Europa League, there will be more opportunities for rotation and playing time across different competitions.
- Rebuild his Form: By staying, Awoniyi can focus on regaining full fitness and form without the pressure of a new club, where he’d need to adapt to a new system and environment.
Arguments to Move
- Limited Playing Time: As the fourth-choice striker, Awoniyi’s opportunities could be severely limited, potentially stalling his career and development.
- Need for Regular Game Time: After a season plagued by injury, consistent playing time is crucial for Awoniyi to rebuild his confidence and get back to his best. A move to a club where he’s a primary option would provide this.
- Interest from Other Clubs: Rumors of interest from clubs like West Ham and Ajax suggest there are alternative options where he could be more valued and feature more prominently.
Ultimately, the best decision for Awoniyi depends on his priorities and the promises made by the club’s management. A move might offer a fresh start and a guaranteed role, while staying would mean fighting for a spot at a club that has shown loyalty to him through his injury struggles.
