Watford sign veteran forward Michail Antonio on one-year deal
Watford have completed the free transfer of Michail Antonio, who spent a decade at West Ham before being released in 2025. The 36-year-old, who recovered from a broken leg sustained in a car crash, has been training with the Championship club and could feature against Stoke City. Antonio has signed a one-year contract pending international clearance.
Antonio's path to Vicarage Road has been circuitous. After a decade with West Ham, he was released in June 2025, then had a brief spell with Qatari club Al-Sailiya. A torn calf muscle previously derailed a move to Brentford, and he also trained with Leicester City. He returned to West Ham's under-21s for rehabilitation following his leg fracture.
At Watford, he becomes the club's 12th summer acquisition, donning the number 18 shirt. The Hornets currently sit 12th in the Championship with two wins, two draws, and two losses. His debut could come against Stoke City on Saturday, provided international clearance is granted. He previously played for Reading, Sheffield Wednesday, and Nottingham Forest in the EFL.
Antonio's signing could serve as an inspirational narrative for athletes recovering from severe injuries, demonstrating that a professional comeback is possible at an advanced age. For Watford supporters, his experience may bolster the squad's attacking options and potentially influence their push for promotion. However, it also underscores the financial and physical realities of football, where even established players face uncertainty after release. The move may also draw attention to the Championship's role as a destination for seasoned professionals.