Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi has described the just-concluded 2023/24 English Premier League season as “another year to remember” after Nottingham Forest successfully escaped relegation for the second consecutive season.
Awoniyi played a crucial role in Forest’s campaign, coming on as a late substitute in their final game against Burnley, which they won 2-1, courtesy of two first-half goals from Chris Wood.
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Even with the victory, their status would not have changed as Luton Town, who were also fighting for survival, failed to beat Fulham.
The 26-year-old striker endured an injury-plagued season, limiting his contributions to just six goals and three assists in 20 games.
He missed 18 matches, including the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, due to injuries. Despite these challenges, Awoniyi expressed gratitude for a successful season.
“After all is said and done. I’m who I am because of you (God). See you next season @premierleague,” Awoniyi wrote on Facebook.
He added, “Another year to remember again. You deserve it, Nottingham Forest. Thanks for your support always and for helping us to push through. You truly the best, You RED.”
Awoniyi’s message hints at his potential stay with Forest or at least in the Premier League next season.
However, there is speculation that Forest might have to sell some top players, including Awoniyi, to avoid another Financial Fair Play breach.
Forest received a four-point deduction towards the end of the 2023/24 season for breaching the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules, exceeding their permitted threshold by £34.5 million.
The club faces the risk of further financial rule violations next season if they don’t sell one of their key players during the summer transfer window.
As a result, Awoniyi is among the top players that Forest co-owner Evangelos Marinakis might be forced to sell ahead of next season to ensure financial compliance.
