Awoniyi Withdraws from Nigeria Friendlies Citing Personal Reasons
Nigeria international Taiwo Awoniyi has confirmed he will not feature in the Super Eagles’ upcoming friendlies against Portugal and Poland, citing personal reasons for his withdrawal.
The Nottingham Forest forward, who has endured injury setbacks in recent months, explained his decision in an interview with SportsBoom: ‘I was supposed to be in the Super Eagles camp, but I opted out because of personal reasons I have to attend to.’
Awoniyi emphasized the depth of talent available to the national team, adding: ‘We have lots of talents in the Super Eagles, so for me, everyone that is in the team for the June friendlies is as good as me, just as I’m as good as them.’
Since joining Forest in a club-record deal worth around £17 million in June 2022, Awoniyi has become a key figure at the Premier League side.
He notably scored six goals in four matches at the end of the 2022/23 season, including a decisive strike against Arsenal that secured Forest’s top-flight status.
His absence from the June fixtures will be felt, but the striker remains confident in the squad’s ability to deliver strong performances against their European opponents.
