Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has publicly addressed the departure of Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who has completed a permanent transfer to newly promoted Coventry City for a fee reported at £9 million, according to Sky Sports.
Marinakis Pays Tribute to Awoniyi
Writing on the club's official website, Marinakis expressed how much the striker meant to everyone connected with the club. He said: “Taiwo will always have a special place in the history of Nottingham Forest. He has been one of the defining figures in our journey and given our supporters moments of great joy that will never be forgotten...”
Marinakis continued: “We thank Taiwo for everything he has given to this Club. He leaves with our gratitude, our respect and our very best wishes for the future. He will always be part of the Forest family and will always be welcomed home.”
The warmth of Marinakis's words underlined the esteem in which Awoniyi was held at the club, despite his career there being interrupted by injury at various points.
Awoniyi's Move to Coventry City
Awoniyi arrived at Forest in 2022 from German side Union Berlin and spent four years at the City Ground, becoming a key figure in the club's recent rise. The Super Eagles forward's exit has now been confirmed, with the fee considered modest given his contribution over that period.
Awoniyi now joins Coventry City, who secured promotion to the Premier League, as the club looks to establish itself in the top flight. He will work under Frank Lampard, the former Chelsea and England midfielder who took charge of the Sky Blues, as they prepare for their return to the Premier League.
The Nigerian international brings valuable top-flight experience to a Coventry squad that will need goals and leadership to survive in England's highest division.
Why Awoniyi Chose Coventry
Legit.ng previously reported that Taiwo Awoniyi joined Coventry City because he wanted to continue in the Premier League and most especially live in England. The striker had offers from abroad, including from the Turkish Super League, but his family is settled in England and wanted to continue.
