Awoniyi aims for strong season with Nottingham Forest after pre-season goal

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi believes Nottingham Forest’s journey to success for the 2026/27 season starts long before the Premier League begins. He says the club is already building a winning mindset during pre-season.

The Nigerian international shared this after he captained Forest to a 3-0 pre-season win against Championship side Blackburn Rovers, where he also scored.

Awoniyi had a tough 2025/26 season due to injuries and inconsistent play. But he showed promise in the pre-season as he prepares for the new season.

The former Union Berlin forward ended last season on a high note, scoring three goals and providing two assists in his last six Premier League games. He hopes to carry that momentum into the new season with coach Oliver Glasner’s team.

After the match, Awoniyi spoke to Forest TV and expressed happiness about scoring. He said pre-season is mainly for regaining sharpness, rhythm, and confidence.

"It feels good, and that’s what the preseason is all about, getting the rhythm, ready for the season, and getting goals," Awoniyi said.

Focus on fitness and preparation

Awoniyi noted that the physical demands of pre-season have been tough, especially with the hot weather. But he believes every player understands how important this work is.

"It is very hot, but at the end of the day, preseason is all about getting fit and getting the minutes. I think we all know this, and the goal is just to be ready before the first game, and everyone knows it, and we just keep going."

For Awoniyi, physical fitness is just one part of the picture. He believes the mindset developed during pre-season can decide how teams perform when the real games start.

“The winning mentality starts here”

Talking about Forest’s goals for the upcoming season, Awoniyi explained that a successful season depends on the standards set during pre-season.

"For me, I always say this, the games we win in the season start from now. This is where you get the bits done because when the season starts, there might be less minutes to do the runs and this is where the winning mentality starts. If you go in to achieve anything, you start from here."

His words show Forest's commitment to improve on last season. They want to ensure the squad is both physically and mentally ready before the competitive matches begin.

Positive atmosphere in camp

Awoniyi also praised the atmosphere in Nottingham Forest’s training camp. He highlighted the coaching staff and backroom staff’s role in creating a positive environment.

According to the Nigerian striker, the unity in the squad has made the preparations enjoyable and effective.

"It’s been great with everyone, the coaching staff, nutritionist, and medical staff; everyone has been helpful. I think it has been great and fun to be together again and getting to understand each other."

Eyes on the next test

Forest will keep preparing with another pre-season match against Vitória Sport Clube on Sunday. Awoniyi said the focus is on making sure every player gets enough minutes before the competitive season starts.

"The game on Sunday is all about getting the necessary minutes and everyone to be ready and ready for the season."

Having dealt with injuries, Awoniyi seems eager for a fresh start. His goal against Blackburn is a good sign that the Nigerian striker is getting back to form. With his confidence rising, he aims to turn his strong pre-season into goals and solid performances as Nottingham Forest looks forward to a successful 2026/27 season.