TaiwoAwoniyi

Unicorns Football Academy, Sheikh Abdulquadri’s College, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Where it all started at Sheikh Abdulquadri’s College, my first football academy. A place filled with lasting memories and the foundation of my journey toward the dream. They say dreams come true, and for me, it all began here. This was the starting point of Awoniyi Taiwo’s football story.

January 2009 - May 2011

Imperial Soccer Academy, Sango ota, Nigeria

I joined Imperial Soccer Academy, another step toward pursuing the goal of becoming a professional football player.

June 2011 - July 2015

Nigerian Football Federation (NFF, Under15/17 Golden Eaglets), Nigeria

A breakthrough moment for my career as I debuted as a player for the Golden Eaglets team, representing Nigeria at the FIFA U15 and 17 World Cups.

April 2012 - November 2013

Nigerian Football Federation (NFF, Under20 Flying Eagles), Nigeria

I got the incredible privilege of being a part of the Nigerian Under 20 team, where I contributed and gained more international experience.

March 2015

Nigerian Football Federation (NFF, Under23 Olympic Eagles), Nigeria

I gained further international experience with the Under 23 team, playing as a centre forward and right winger.

November 2015

Liverpool FC

Signed my first professional contract with the English Premier League club, Liverpool.

August 2015 - August 2021

FSV Frankfurt Football Club, Bundesliga 2, Germany

I went on my first loan from Liverpool featuring 13 times for Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga 2.

August 2015 - June 2016

NEC Nijmegen FC, Netherland August

I scored twice in 18 appearances in my second loan adventure in the Netherlands.

August 2016 - July 2017

Royal Excel Mouscron FC, Jupiler Pro League, Belgium

Thrived at Royal Excel Mouscron in Belgium during my first loan move from Liverpool, ending the year with 11 goals and providing 3 assists in 29 appearances.

July 2017 - June 2018

KAA Gent Football Club, Jupiler Pro League, Belgium

An unforgettable year in Gent, on a season long loan, where I made significant contributions to the team.

August 2018 - January 2019

Royal Excel Mouscron FC, Jupiler Pro League, Belgium

A six month loan stint on my second return to Mouscron scoring 7 times in 9 games.

January 2019 - June 2019

FSV Mainz05 FC, Bundesliga League, Germany

Played for FSV Mainz05 in the Bundesliga, where I gained valuable experience in Germany’s top league, contributing to the team's efforts during the season.

August 2019 - June 2020

Education: Higher National Diploma (SCQF Level 8)

I earned a diploma in business and marketing at the London School of International Business (LSIB) EDUQUAL.

Nov 2018 - Sep 2020

Union Berlin, Bundesliga League, Germany

Swapped loan deals for a permanent move to Union Berlin. Joining the German club was a validation of my value and the club’s belief in my potential. I played a vital role at Union Berlin, where I continued to perform at a high level.

September 2020 - June 2022

Nigeria senior Men's National team.

I made my debut for the Nigerian Super Eagles, representing my country in AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. It was a monumental step forward in my international career.

October 2021 - Present

Education: Bachelor of Art Business Management Buckinghamshire New University, London, United Kingdom

I strengthened my personal growth by completing an MBA at Buckinghamshire University. This accomplishment was a proud moment for me and my family.

September 2020 - August 2022

Nottingham Forest FC

My wait for Premier League football ended when I signed with Nottingham Forest FC, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my career. On 18 August 2023, I made history by becoming the first Nottingham Forest player since Stan Collymore in 1995 to score in six consecutive Premier League matches. To the Glory of God, the adventure continues…

July 2022 - Present

Post- graduate Diploma in Sport Directorship, PFA Business School, United Kingdom

Preparing for life after football with a Sporting Directorship course with The PFA.

September 2024 - Present