Michail Antonio looking frustrated at West Ham with Graham Potter looking at him in a circle inset
credit: Imago
Max Wilkins
Wed 17 September 2025 16:10, UK
Michail Antonio was surprisingly released by West Ham in the summer.
Antonio had been a stellar servant for West Ham over many years, but that didn’t stop Graham Potter and Co. from allowing his contract to run down.
This saw many West Ham fans remember many iconic moments from Antonio before ultimately waving goodbye ahead of what has proven to be a difficult season at the London Stadium.
The Jamaica international has watched on while his former West Ham side have lost to Tottenham and Chelsea at home, and Sunderland away in the Premier League.
Now, the potential of an Antonio return in E20 has been discussed, while a move to the Championship remains a possibility.
Michail Antonio
Credit: Imago
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This article contains exclusive comments from iconic commentator Ian Darke.
Michail Antonio return to West Ham assessed
There is no getting away from the struggles that the Irons have had this campaign, with Niclas Fullkrug coming under scrutiny at West Ham once again.
This has most recently seen Potter line up his side without a recognised number nine, while both the German and Callum Wilson watched on from the bench.
With that being said, having Antonio available as a forward option could have been useful for the claret and blue outfit as he continues his injury recovery with the academy at Rush Green.
Despite this, Darke would be left hugely surprised if the 35-year-old was to return to East London rather than complete a move to the Championship.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, Darke said: “That would be one of the great stories of the season.
“I think the reality appeared to be that he had no future there.
“It would be a surprise as well because the club, despite his fantastic service, decided that they didn’t want him.
“I would have expected someone in the EFL to take him up.
“*I would be very surprised if he were to come from the wilderness and find himself back in West Ham’s first team.*“
Michail Antonio
Credit: Imago
West Ham could benefit from Michail Antonio’s return
The Irons have already proved in recent weeks that they aren’t shy about adding experienced pros to their side after Lukasz Fabianski’s return.
It is safe to assume that the former Poland international will rarely play for the Hammers, but his influence and experience is bound to benefit the squad.
The same could be said about Antonio after 10 years in claret and blue, combined with his physicality, which could improve the side in East London this season.
It will be interesting to see if he can land himself a new club and whether Potter and Co. could look to rebuild bridges with the forward.
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