West Ham confirm 'NO new deal' for Premier League star months after life-threatening accident

West Ham United has confirmed that fan favourite Michail Antonio will not be offered a new deal as a first-team player. 

The news brings an emotional end to a remarkable 10-year period with the Hammers.

This significant career change comes just months after Antonio was involved in a horrific car crash in December that nearly cost him his life. 

The decision comes months after it was reported that the club were considering hammering out a new deal for their leading goalscorer in Premier League history.

While his playing days at the senior level for West Ham appear to be over, the club has made it clear they are not parting ways entirely. 

According to BBC Sport, discussions with Antonio are continuing, with the potential for him to transition into a new role. 

It is understood that these talks could lead to a coaching and mentoring position within the West Ham academy, a move that would keep his experience and passion for the club alive. 

This commitment from West Ham is particularly poignant given the circumstances of his departure.

 The club's official statement confirmed their continued support for the player, saying, "the club will continue to support and assist him in his ongoing rehabilitation, offering him access to training, facilities and medical care if needed." 

This assistance, coupled with his recent appearances for the Jamaica national team and the West Ham Under-21s, highlights Antonio's determination to continue his involvement in football, although in a different capacity.

Michail Antonio's time at West Ham will be remembered for his immense impact on the pitch. 

Over his decade with the club, he made a staggering 323 appearances, netting 83 goals in the process. 

Signed from Nottingham Forest in 2015, Antonio grew into a formidable striker, and his goal-scoring prowess was officially recognised when he became West Ham's record Premier League scorer with 68 goals in 268 top-flight matches. 

His contribution was never more evident than in the 2023 Conference League final, where he started for West Ham in the match that ended their 43-year wait for a major trophy.