Tensions reportedly erupted after Chelsea’s 3–0 victory over Nottingham Forest, as Taiwo Awoniyi launched a furious rant in the visitors’ dressing room, questioning the legitimacy of Chelsea’s performance and sparking a heated post-match scene.
According to reports, the Nigerian striker was visibly frustrated after the match and criticized Chelsea’s win, allegedly saying:
“You call that class? That was pure luck in the final minutes. Without those individual flashes, Chelsea would look like a Championship team.”
Awoniyi’s comments quickly spread, reportedly reaching Chelsea captain Reece James, who was said to be furious upon hearing them. The defender immediately gathered his teammates for a “serious talk” inside the home dressing room, urging calm and demanding respect for their performance.
Sources claim that the atmosphere was tense and divided, with several of Chelsea’s younger players quietly agreeing with Awoniyi’s criticism, while senior figures within the squad remained silent and uneasy.
The incident has now become the latest in a string of emotional flashpoints involving Chelsea this season, as the team continues to face scrutiny over its consistency despite flashes of brilliance under Enzo Maresca.
As both clubs move on from the heated encounter, it remains to be seen whether Awoniyi’s outburst will trigger further backlash — or whether Chelsea will use it as added motivation in their upcoming fixtures.
