Murillo and Ola Aina react to Taiwo Awoniyi’s Forest announcement
Murillo and Ola Aina joined Nottingham Forest teammates in responding to an announcement for Taiwo Awoniyi following the end of the season.
Nottingham Forest narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification after a 1-0 defeat to Chelsea on the final day, ultimately finishing seventh in the table.
Despite the disappointment, the club secured a place in the Europa Conference League—bringing European football back to the City Ground.
However, Awoniyi has been absent from the last two matches after a worrying incident against Leicester on 11 May.
Awoniyi collided with the post and was later rushed to hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma. Remarkably, he continued playing after the collision before being withdrawn.
The situation sparked criticism of officiating protocols, with PGMOL chief Howard Webb now facing pressure to amend rules. Anthony Elanga was clearly in an offside position when he received the ball, but the assistant referee delayed raising their flag until after Awoniyi had sustained the injury.
Despite the serious nature of the incident, Awoniyi was recognised on the final day of the season with an award that celebrated his off-the-field contributions.
Taiwo Awoniyi named Nottingham Forest’s Community Champion for 2024/25
Despite not featuring in Nottingham Forest’s final two games of the season, Awoniyi was honoured with the club’s PFA Community Champion award for the 2024/25 campaign.
The PFA Community Champion award recognises professional footballers who go above and beyond off the pitch, celebrating individuals who have shown outstanding commitment to community initiatives and made a positive impact on the lives of others.
Forest’s official Instagram account shared the announcement, writing: “[Awoniyi] has been named our [PFA] Community Champion for the 2024/25 season in recognition of his outstanding dedication to supporting local communities throughout the year.”
The post received a wave of appreciation from teammates, with Ryan Yates presenting the award to Awoniyi. Ola Aina and Murillo were among those who liked the post, showing their support for the striker’s off-field efforts.
Arsenal join Morgan Gibbs-White transfer race amid growing interest
While Awoniyi and Forest ultimately missed out on Champions League qualification, several players are attracting attention ahead of the summer transfer window.
Football Insider revealed Arsenal have entered the race to sign Morgan Gibbs-White, intensifying competition with Manchester City, who have held long-standing interest in the midfielder.
Man City recently missed out on Florian Wirtz, who is close to joining Liverpool, and losing another key target would be a significant setback.
However, Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his midfield alongside Declan Rice and has now identified Gibbs-White as a top target as Arsenal prepare for a busy summer window.