Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi has been left out of Nottingham Forest’s squad for the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League campaign, dealing a major blow to the Nigerian international’s hopes of featuring in European competition this season.
The Premier League side officially submitted their 25-man roster to UEFA on Wednesday, with Awoniyi’s name notably absent. The reasons for his omission have not been officially confirmed, but reports suggest it may be linked to his recent injury struggles and squad registration restrictions.
In contrast, Awoniyi’s compatriot and fellow Nigerian international, Ola Aina, secured a place in the squad. The versatile full-back has been a regular for Forest since joining from Torino and is expected to play a key role in their European run.
Forest’s list also features key first-team players such as Chris Wood, Nico Williams, Morgan Gibbs-White, Douglas Luiz and Callum Hudson-Odoi. New signings including Arnaud Kalimuendo and Nikola Milenković were also registered, reflecting the club’s strengthened squad depth following a busy transfer window.
The East Midlands side will compete in a challenging Europa League league-phase group, facing Midtjylland (Denmark), FC Porto (Portugal), Malmö (Sweden), Ferencváros (Hungary), Braga (Portugal), Utrecht (Netherlands), Sturm Graz (Austria), and Real Betis (Spain).
Full Nottingham Forest Europa League Squad:
Ola Aina
Elliot Anderson
Willy Boly
Dilane Bakwa
Nicolás Domínguez
Morgan Gibbs-White
Callum Hudson-Odoi
Igor Jesus
Arnaud Kalimuendo
Douglas Luiz
James McAtee
Nikola Milenković
Morato
Murillo
Dan Ndoye
Ibrahim Sangaré
Nicolò Savona
Matz Sels
Neco Williams
Chris Wood
John Victor
Ryan Yates
With Awoniyi missing out, Forest will rely heavily on the attacking trio of Wood, Hudson-Odoi and Kalimuendo to provide firepower in the competition.
The Nigerian striker’s exclusion will also raise questions about his long-term role at the club, especially as he continues to battle for fitness and a consistent place in the first team.