Michail Antonio has described the harrowing moment he witnessed explosions from his hotel window on what should have been his debut for Qatari club Al Sailiya. The former West Ham striker, who joined the Middle Eastern side just two days after war broke out in the region, experienced the terrifying reality of the conflict firsthand. Antonio said: "The day I was meant to make my debut, that was a frightening day, hearing bombs and the hotel was shaking, that was terrifying. Despite the alarming scenes on that first day, Antonio maintains he has felt secure in his new surroundings for the most part. Antonio's path to Qatar followed a frustrating search for a new club after his West Ham exit last summer.

Source: BBC March 20, 2026 04:00 UTC