Antonio's impressive goal-scoring record is a testament to his dedication and hard work. With 68 Premier League goals, he is West Ham's record goalscorer. Although his best season in terms of goals was only 10 in each of the 2019/20, 2020/21, and 2021/22 seasons, there is a sense of consistency in his performance.
Antonio's career has not been without its challenges. A broken leg sustained in a car crash in December 2024 was a devastating blow. However, he has shown remarkable resilience and intends to continue playing. West Ham had offered him a pay-as-you-play deal, but he felt it was not enough, citing the club's focus on making money from players as a reason for his decision to leave.
With Antonio's departure, West Ham fans may have expected a younger and more dynamic forward to be signed in his place. Instead, Graham Potter has brought in Callum Wilson, a 33-year-old striker with a similar playing style to Antonio. However, Wilson's recent injury history is concerning, with 57 missed games in the last two seasons due to various injuries.
Even if Niclas Fullkrug is Potter's preferred choice in the centre-forward role, can he be confident in Wilson's ability to fill in if needed? Wilson's signing may be seen as a short-term solution, prioritizing immediate results over long-term development. It's a move that may raise questions about the club's priorities and the type of players they are willing to sign.
West Ham's decision to sign Wilson may seem to contradict the type of player Graham Potter said he enjoyed coaching. Wilson is a physical target man, but his injury record raises concerns. The signing may ultimately blow up in West Ham's faces, leaving fans to wonder if the club has truly learned from Antonio's example.