Leicester City boss offers update on move for former West Ham star | OneFootball

Antonio Comeback Stalled by Injury Setback

Michail Antonio’s much-anticipated return to football has been delayed after the striker suffered a muscle injury while training with Leicester City. The former West Ham forward had been in discussions over a short-term deal with the Championship side, but the setback has forced the club to abandon plans.

Antonio, 35, has been training with Leicester for the past month, impressing with his fitness and professionalism, yet the untimely injury means he is expected to be sidelined for several weeks. Following Leicester’s 2-1 victory over West Brom on Monday, manager Marti Cifuentes confirmed the club will not proceed with the deal.

“Michail Antonio, unfortunately he had a small setback during the training with us and that means unfortunately we won’t proceed in the process we started,” Cifuentes told reporters. “It’s a pity because he’s a great guy, a great professional. He’s shown really good things, not only from a football perspective but from a personal perspective in the weeks he has been with us. But that changes the plan.”

Striker Could Have Boosted Attack

Leicester are desperate to reinforce their attacking options, with only Jordan Ayew and Patson Daka available up front. Antonio, who has not played competitive football since suffering a broken femur in a car accident in December 2024, would have offered vital experience and firepower despite his time out of the game.

Cifuentes praised Antonio’s dedication and output in training, suggesting that the striker could have provided an immediate impact in the battle for promotion. The injury, however, leaves Leicester needing to return to the transfer market to secure another forward before the window closes.

“It’s something we’re analysing,” Cifuentes added. “Together with the club we have daily discussions about it. We’re going to try to do our best to improve the team if there’s an opportunity to do it.”

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Leicester Battle Off-Field Challenges

The Foxes’ current position in the Championship table has been bolstered by Monday’s last-gasp win, moving them into the top half. Abdul Fatawu’s added-time strike secured the three points, but unrest among supporters continues. Sections of the crowd staged a boycott in protest at the King Power ownership, reflecting growing dissatisfaction off the pitch.

Leicester’s squad is one of the most expensive in the division, yet poor form and ongoing management issues have overshadowed ambitions. In addition, the club faces three separate charges relating to breaches of Profit and Sustainability Regulations, with a potential points deduction looming.

Future Prospects for Antonio

Antonio’s road back to competitive football remains uncertain. After spending more than three weeks in hospital following his accident, the striker has shown determination to return, but Leicester’s immediate interest has evaporated.

For a player of Antonio’s experience, a successful comeback could still be possible elsewhere, but timing and fitness will be crucial. Clubs in need of an experienced striker will have to weigh his potential impact against the risk of further injury. Leicester, meanwhile, continue to evaluate options to strengthen their attack as they chase promotion from the Championship.