Coventry City Seals Taiwo Awoniyi Deal: Super Eagle Lands!

Newly promoted English Premier League club Coventry City has officially confirmed the signing of Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi from Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed fee, reported to be worth €10.5 million. The 29-year-old forward completed his transfer and was welcomed by Coventry City on Monday evening, August 17, 2026, following news on Saturday that he was undergoing a medical ahead of the move.

Awoniyi originally joined Nottingham Forest in 2022 for £17.2 million ($23 million), making him the club's then-record signing. During his tenure with Forest, he scored 23 times in 103 appearances across all competitions. However, his playing time was significantly limited last season, with the Nigeria international making just three starts in the league, prompting his search for more game time at the Coventry Building Society Arena.

Upon his departure, Awoniyi received an emotional farewell from Nottingham Forest. Players and coaching staff honored him with a guard of honour before their pre-season friendly against Brest on Sunday, even giving him the bumps, while fans at the City Ground gave him a standing ovation. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis acknowledged Awoniyi's impact, stating, “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.” Forest boss Oliver Glasner added, “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.”

Coventry City celebrated Awoniyi's arrival with a striking 22-second announcement video. In the clip, Awoniyi stands in front of a dark backdrop framed by a flowing Nigerian flag before delivering the iconic line: “Super Eagles don land, it had to be Cov.” Awoniyi expressed his enthusiasm for his new surroundings, stating, “I’m very happy to complete my move to Coventry City. I am very excited about this season, and I can’t wait to get started. I’m really looking forward to working with my new teammates. I have seen how amazing they were last season, coming up from the Championship, and now I am just excited to join them and get started for the new campaign.”

Awoniyi is expected to play a key role for Coventry City, with his first task being the Premier League opener against defending champions Arsenal. He boasts an impressive record against the Gunners, having scored three goals in six appearances. Having participated in Nottingham Forest's pre-season, Awoniyi is fit and ready to go. Coach Frank Lampard will likely throw him straight into the starting lineup, especially given his strong history against Arsenal.