Michail Antonio returns to pitch just six months after horror car crash that left him with a broken leg as West Ham star makes cameo appearance for Jamaica in Gold Cup opener

The 35-year-old forward stepped onto the pitch for the first time since his December accident in Jamaica’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Guatemala in their opening game of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Antonio was left with a broken leg after crashing his Ferrari, and he was not expected to make his comeback until the autumn, with Jamaica’s coaching staff, including manager Steve McClaren, pencilling in September for a possible return. However, Antonio had other ideas and quietly set his sights on a much earlier return.

In the lead-up to the tournament, Antonio trained with Jamaica’s squad during the Unity Cup preparations. His performance in these sessions impressed the coaching staff enough to warrant a spot in the national team’s Gold Cup squad.

While Antonio celebrated his international return, his club situation remains unresolved. West Ham have yet to offer him the long-term stability he seeks. The club initially tabled a short-term extension on reduced terms, which Antonio declined, citing a desire for a longer commitment and improved wages.

West Ham wrote: "Given Michail Antonio’s unique situation, following his serious road traffic accident in December 2024, there will be no formal decision and announcement on his future until such time that it is considered right and appropriate. However, as his current contract is also due to expire on 30 June, for the purposes of the Premier League Retained List procedure at the end of the 2024-25 season, Michail will be listed as a free transfer."

Antonio's brief appearance against Guatemala may have come in a losing effort, but it marked an important milestone in a difficult personal journey. Jamaica will now shift focus to their next group stage match against Guadeloupe on June 20, in which Antonio's involvement is likely to increase as he regains match sharpness and fitness.