'I'm grateful for being alive!' - Michail Antonio breaks silence in emotional message to West Ham fans after horror car crash left him hospitalised

Antonio’s £260,000 Ferrari sustained severe damage in the accident, and the impact was so powerful that it forced the player into the passenger seat. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to extricate him from the wreckage, after which he was immediately rushed to the hospital. The injuries Antonio sustained required surgery, and West Ham later assured fans that their star striker was in stable condition. However, the extent of his recovery remains uncertain and could potentially be expected to be sidelined for at least a year, despite being discharged from the hospital on December 31.

Despite his current deal nearing its end, West Ham are reportedly exploring the possibility of extending Antonio’s contract. This would provide the forward with security during his year-long rehabilitation. Talks between the club and Antonio’s representatives are expected to commence soon.

On New Year’s Eve, Antonio took to Instagram to share an emotional update with his followers, reflecting on the accident and its life-changing impact.

"Every year around this time, I’m asked what I’m grateful for, and every year I’ve struggled to find the right words. But this year, I know exactly what I’m grateful for: being alive," he wrote.

"I want to take a moment to acknowledge something I’ve come to realise – I’ve spent so many years taking life for granted. I made plans for the next day, the next year, always assuming tomorrow was guaranteed. I’ve seen close friends pass away, witnessed others face near-death experiences, and even then, I didn’t fully grasp just how precious life is.

"What I’ve been through recently has opened my eyes. Life is fragile, and every single moment matters. I’m so grateful to God for giving me the strength to keep going and for allowing me to still be here. To the emergency services, the NHS, The Air Ambulance, everyone at the Royal London and Cromwell Hospitals and everyone from top to bottom at West Ham United FC. The medical team, The board, all of the staff, my teammates and the amazing West Ham fans… I honestly could not have got through this without you. thank you from the bottom of my heart. To my loved ones who stood by my side throughout everything, I can’t express how much you mean to me.

"Lastly, to the whole football community, thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown me. It has truly meant the world. I love you all and I am endlessly grateful for every one of you. Happy New Year – and I’ll be back on that pitch soon."

In the wake of Antonio’s accident, his West Ham teammates showed their solidarity ahead of a critical league match against Wolves. During warm-ups, they wore shirts emblazoned with Antonio’s name, paying tribute to their injured colleague. The club later auctioned these shirts, along with the match jerseys, raising £60,000 for charity. The proceeds were donated to the NHS and Air Ambulance UK, recognising the crucial roles they play in emergency responses like Antonio’s.

Since joining West Ham from Nottingham Forest in 2015, Antonio has cemented his place in the club’s history. He holds the record as West Ham’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer, having netted 83 goals during his tenure. West Ham supporters will undoubtedly be hoping for his full recovery and a potential return to action, while the club works to ensure he has the necessary support during this challenging time.