Awoniyi wins PFA charity work award

Nigeria international Taiwo Awoniyi has been recognised for his outstanding commitment to community development after being named as one of the Professional Footballers’ Association Community Champions for the 2024/25 season.

The Nottingham Forest forward, who is currently recovering from a serious injury, received the accolade for his dedication to supporting local communities throughout the campaign.

Nottingham Forest stated on Tuesday via X, expressing their pride in Awoniyi’s recognition as their PFA Community Champion, highlighting his ongoing efforts to impact communities off the pitch positively.

His PFA Community Champion award is given annually to players who go beyond their sporting duties to support community-based initiatives and charitable causes. It forms part of the PFA’s wider commitment to encourage footballers to engage meaningfully with their communities and use their influence to inspire social change.

In addition to Awoniyi, Manchester United’s Amad Diallo and Maya Le Tissier were also honoured for their contributions to community projects through the Manchester United Foundation. Diallo notably participated in events such as a Black History Month workshop and visits to local schools, aiming to inspire the next generation and promote cultural awareness. His involvement with disabled supporters and community outreach programmes further demonstrated his dedication to giving back.

The Nigerian forward was placed in an induced coma following urgent abdominal surgery after colliding with a post during his side’s draw with Leicester City. The injury occurred after an assistant referee delayed raising an offside flag, prompting the PFA to seek discussions with football’s lawmakers to review the rules surrounding flag delays, with player safety and welfare as the priority.

The PFA is now preparing to engage with key football governing bodies, including the International Football Association Board and the Professional Game Match Officials Limited, to examine whether the current protocols on delayed offside flags, designed to balance fairness and player safety, require revision in light of Awoniyi’s injury.

While the union’s immediate concern remains Awoniyi’s health and recovery, they intend to consult with all parties involved, including the player and Nottingham Forest, to ensure lessons are learned and future risks mitigated.