Michail Antonio
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Mon 9 June 2025 18:10, UK
West Ham United have announced that a host of players are to depart the London Stadium at the end of June.
However, no decision will be made on Michail Antonio’s future as he recovers from his injuries sustained in a serious car crash.
As his contract is to expire at the end of the month, he is to be placed on the transfer list as a formality.
Recently, Antonio made a surprise television appearance, and now there is the belief that it will lead to something new in his career.
West Ham United attacker Michail Antonio
Antonio is undergoing rehabilitation for his injuries (Credit: Imago)
Antonio paves way for future away from West Ham
Antonio will be keen to return to West Ham action, but he has been busying himself with other things in his spare time.
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The 35-year-old was involved in a serious car crash late last year and was forced to undergo surgery as a result.
Antonio is yet to return to first-team football as he has been completing his rehabilitation, including learning to walk again.
Appearances Goals Assists
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Antonio has truly made his mark in East London
The striker made his TNT Sports punditry debut for the Europa Conference League final between Chelsea and Real Betis.
He also hosts the Footballer’s Football Podcast alongside Newcastle United forward Callum Wilson.
According to the Daily Mail (9 June), Antonio surprised West Ham insiders by choosing to give his first interview after his crash with BBC show Morning Live.
His interview was with presenter Helen Skelton, a non-sport programme, which raised suspicions that it might be his first step on a potential future in TV work.
Michail Antonio West Ham
Antonio remains a West Ham player (Credit: Imago)
Hammers make correct call on Antonio future
West Ham faced a difficult decision on Antonio’s future, knowing there would have been a backlash if they had released him.
The Irons have not enjoyed the best PR in the past, with the London club deciding not to terminate Kurt Zouma’s contract following his cat-kicking video.
Of course, at 35, Antonio has his best years behind him, but it would have been cruel if the Hammers let him leave under such circumstances.
By not deciding on Antonio’s future, they have effectively swerved being held responsible.
Whether the striker will play in claret and blue again remains to be seen, but his recovery is of paramount importance.
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