Nottingham Forest Coach, Glasner Hails Awoniyi Work Rate
By Saheed Afolabi
Nottingham Forest gaffer, Oliver Glasner has thrown accolades to Nigeria forward, Taiwo Awoniyi following his move to Coventry City.
Coventry City have signed Awoniyi from Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest in a deal reported to be worth around £9 million, bolstering Frank Lampard’s squad ahead of their Premier League return.
The 29-year-old completed the move after an emotional farewell at the City Ground. During Forest’s final pre-season friendly a 2-0 win over French side Brest Awoniyi received a guard of honour from his teammates and staff before the second half, allowing him to say goodbye to the club where he spent four seasons.
Forest head coach Glasner spoke positively about the forward after the match, praising both his personality and professionalism.
“He was probably one of the loveliest guys I’ve met, always friendly, always smiling. Everybody in the club likes him, and I could see everybody in the stand likes him,” Glasner said.
“He always gives 100% for the team. He always gives 100% for the bench, and that’s why he deserves such a farewell, such a guard of honour. That’s why we decided we would give it to him and I wish him all the best at his next club, just not when they play us.”
Awoniyi joined Forest from Union Berlin in 2022 as a then-club-record signing for £17.2 million. He scored 23 goals in 103 appearances across all competitions, including key contributions that helped the club secure Premier League survival in previous campaigns. Limited starts in recent seasons, partly due to competition from Chris Wood and Igor Jesus plus injury setbacks, opened the door for a move.
For newly promoted Coventry, who return to the top flight after a 25-year absence and face champions Arsenal in their opening fixture, Awoniyi brings proven Premier League experience. He will link up with fellow Nigerian Frank Onyeka and is expected to compete for a starting role, particularly with Haji Wright dealing with injury concerns.
Awoniyi expressed excitement about the new chapter, saying he is looking forward to working with his new teammates after watching their Championship promotion campaign.
The transfer marks another significant addition for the Sky Blues as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
