STATUS: OFFICIAL — Michail Antonio is a Watford player. The Championship club have signed the 36-year-old striker as a free agent for one season, according to the club announcement reported by Reuters on September 12, 2026.\n\nThe deal marks Antonio's return to English football. He left West Ham in August 2025 after his contract was not renewed and later played for Al-Sailiya in Qatar. At West Ham, Antonio became the club's all-time leading Premier League goalscorer.\n\nThe comeback also carries significance because of his physical journey. Antonio suffered a serious leg injury in a road accident in December 2024 and underwent surgery. This report is limited to information made public by identifiable sources and does not speculate about his medical condition.\n\nWatford gain a forward with extensive Premier League and Championship experience, but the club have not disclosed his salary, bonuses or other financial terms. A squad number and the possibility of an immediate debut have been reported by the media, but they do not alter the confirmed fact: the contract is for one year and the signing is complete.\n\nSOURCES: Reuters, September 12, 2026 — https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/antonio-returns-english-football-with-watford-move-2026-09-12/ · talkSPORT, September 12, 2026 — https://talksport.com/football/4575670/michail-antonio-watford-transfer-news-west-ham-championship/