Taiwo Awoniyi has revealed the footballers who shaped his career. The new Coventry City striker named Rashidi Yekini, Thierry Henry and Didier Drogba among his biggest football inspirations. He made the revelation after completing his move from Nottingham Forest to Coventry City.
Awoniyi finished the 2025/26 campaign strongly with Nottingham Forest. He scored three goals and provided two assists in his final six Premier League appearances. He also scored twice in Forest’s 3-1 win over Chelsea in May.
During an interview with fellow Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka, Awoniyi discussed the players who inspired him.
“When I watch the video clip of the late Rashidi Yekini of Nigeria, Theirry Henry, and Didier Drogba of course,” Awoniyi said.
Yekini holds a special place in Nigerian football history. Henry and Drogba also enjoyed remarkable careers in the Premier League.
Awoniyi also identified the moments that stand out most from his own career. His first major highlight came with Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets.
“When we won the U17 World Cup and also when I moved to the Premier League,” he revealed.
The Nigerian striker has now started a new chapter with Coventry City. The club secured his permanent transfer from Nottingham Forest this summer.
Awoniyi joins Coventry after scoring 23 goals during his time at the City Ground.
His latest move gives him another chance to establish himself in the Premier League. Coventry will need his experience and goals as they begin life among England’s top-flight clubs.
The striker has also made his biggest personal inspiration clear. He said his father remains his biggest inspiration away from the footballers he admires.
Awoniyi is now focused on repaying the faith shown by Coventry. He wants to work hard for the supporters and deliver goals on the pitch.
His recent scoring form gives the club reason for optimism. Now, the challenge is to carry that momentum into Coventry’s Premier League campaign.
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