Here’s a detailed news report based on the latest development regarding Taiwo Awoniyi:
🇳🇬 Taiwo Awoniyi Named PFA Community Champion for 2024/25 Season
May 28, 2025 – Lagos, Nigeria
Nigeria international and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been named a Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Community Champion for the 2024/25 season, in recognition of his exceptional dedication to community service and social impact off the pitch.
Despite being sidelined due to a serious abdominal injury, Awoniyi has remained active in outreach efforts, earning him the prestigious accolade awarded to footballers who make significant contributions to charitable causes and local community initiatives.
Club & PFA Acknowledgment
Nottingham Forest confirmed the award on Tuesday via a statement on social media platform X, saying:
“We’re incredibly proud of Taiwo Awoniyi for being named our PFA Community Champion for 2024/25. His efforts off the pitch reflect the values of our club and his personal commitment to making a difference.”
The PFA’s Community Champion initiative is part of a broader campaign to encourage players to use their influence to foster positive social change and engage with underserved communities.
Other Honorees
Alongside Awoniyi, Manchester United’s Amad Diallo and Maya Le Tissier were also recognized. Diallo’s involvement included:
- Leading workshops during Black History Month
- Visiting local schools
- Supporting disabled fans and community outreach programs
These honours underline the PFA’s goal of spotlighting players whose leadership extends beyond the pitch.
Injury & Safety Reform Discussion
Awoniyi’s award comes amid serious concern over the incident that led to his injury earlier this season:
- He collided with the post after scoring during a match vs. Leicester City.
- The assistant referee delayed raising the offside flag — part of current VAR-related protocols — leading to the dangerous situation.
- He required emergency abdominal surgery and was placed in an induced coma briefly during recovery.
The PFA is now pushing for a review of these delayed offside flag rules, citing player safety. Talks are expected with:
- The International Football Association Board (IFAB)
- Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL)
The union has also vowed to involve Awoniyi and Nottingham Forest in these discussions, seeking to prevent similar injuries in the future.
Public Support & Nigerian Solidarity
Public figures and fans have poured out support:
- Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi praised Awoniyi’s “unyielding Nigerian spirit.”
- The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) issued a statement backing the player and urging reforms.
Recovery & Outlook
Though still recovering, Awoniyi’s resilience and social engagement have inspired many. His recognition as a PFA Community Champion adds to his legacy not just as a footballer, but as a community leader and humanitarian.