Eight months after being involved in a terrible vehicle accident, Michail Antonio, a forward for West Ham United, is now a free agent and has left the London team.
After nine years with the Hammers—where he became a fan favourite and played a significant role in the team’s recent victories, notably their 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League title—the Jamaican international is leaving.
Antonio’s career took a nasty turn in late 2024 after he was in a high-speed crash that seriously wrecked his luxury vehicle. Even though he was spared any serious injuries, the incident kept him out of commission for months, which hurt his form and match fitness.
The 34-year-old failed to negotiate a contract extension and made very few appearances after his recuperation. He was able to leave West Ham this summer on a free transfer after the club decided not to offer him new terms.
Antonio is one of West Ham’s most reliable players of the last ten years and departs the team with more than 75 goals in all competitions. He is now likely to consider offers from Middle Eastern, Major League Soccer, and Premier League clubs.
The Hammers, however, acknowledged Antonio’s services to the team in a statement released on Thursday and pledged to support and help him in his further recovery.
“Michail will always be a much-loved and respected member of the West Ham United family,” the club said. ‘As has been the case since December, the Club will continue to support and assist him in his ongoing rehabilitation, offering him access to training, facilities, and medical care if needed.
‘‘Dialogue continues over his future involvement with the Club in an alternative capacity—including one that would enable others to benefit from his experience and leadership qualities—and he will forever hold a special place in our 130-year history.
‘Everyone at West Ham United would like to sincerely thank Michail for his outstanding, dedicated service in a Claret and Blue shirt over the last ten years. Further recognition of his magnificent contribution will appear across Club channels in the coming days and weeks.’
