Unai Emery Addresses Ollie Watkins’ Absence During Aston Villa’s 4-0 Defeat to Brighton Amid Al Hilal Transfer Rumors
UNAI EMERY has indicated that Ollie Watkins might have chosen to miss Aston Villa’s match.
The Villa manager conceded he was unable to share any information regarding Watkins’ absence after their significant defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is allegedly in discussions with the Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have rejected FOUR offers for the England international.
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When asked about Watkins’ absence, Emery remarked: “It’s best to inquire directly with him. I can’t provide clarity on the situation. My response is silence.”
When pushed further on whether Watkins decided not to participate, Emery responded: “It’s prudent to check with him. His agent may have additional insights.”
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“I can’t provide further information. He is the only one who can clarify his situation; I am unable to.”
“I can discuss players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Such circumstances arise each season, and we’ve learned to cope with them.”
“It’s a situation we must accept and adapt to.”
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Prior to the match, Emery simply responded with “silence” when questioned if Watkins’ time at the club had ended.
Watkins’ absence, alongside injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a reliable striker for the clash against Brighton.
Brighton managed to net four goals within just 25 minutes, thanks to remarkable performances from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the game as he considers a potential transfer.
Emery has also lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning squad.
Additionally, newly signed Joao Gomes, who arrived for £34 million, will be unavailable for Villa’s next home fixture against Arsenal due to a suspension stemming from an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Commenting on the team’s unimpressive performance, Emery noted: “We made mistakes that directly led to their goals.”
“In the initial 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control, which caught us off guard.”
“Conceding four goals is an experience I’ve never had in my four years here.”
“Furthermore, the red card significantly affected the team’s spirit.”
Captain John McGinn extended an apology to the traveling supporters.
He admitted: “The goals we conceded were absolutely unacceptable. We truly apologize to our fans.”
