Watford have completed the signing of experienced striker Michail Antonio on a one-year contract.
The move marks Antonio’s return to English football after spending time in Qatar with Al-Sailiya. The 36-year-old had been away from competitive English football since December 2024 following a serious car accident that left him with a significant leg injury.
Antonio has since worked on his recovery and fitness, eventually training with Watford before securing the opportunity to return to the English game.
The striker brings considerable experience to Watford. His career includes a highly successful spell with West Ham United, where he became one of the club’s most important attacking players and helped them win the Europa Conference League.
He also has previous Championship experience with several clubs, meaning he understands the physical demands of the division.
Watford will hope Antonio can provide more than just goals. His experience could be particularly useful for the club’s younger attacking players, while his physical presence gives manager Rob Edwards another option in the forward line.
Antonio is not expected to immediately become an automatic starter as he continues to regain full match fitness. However, he could make his debut soon if international clearance is completed.
His return is also significant on a personal level. After a lengthy period away from competitive football, Antonio now has an opportunity to continue his career and contribute to another English club.
Watford will be hoping his experience can help them push higher up the Championship table.
For Antonio, meanwhile, the move represents the latest stage of an impressive comeback. Having already experienced the Premier League, European football and international football, he now faces the challenge of proving that he can still make an impact at 36.
A successful season at Watford could provide the veteran striker with the perfect ending to another remarkable chapter of his career.
