Unai Emery Addresses Ollie Watkins’ Absence in Aston Villa’s 4-0 Defeat to Brighton Amid Al Hilal Transfer Rumors
UNAI EMERY has indicated that Ollie Watkins may have chosen to skip Aston Villa’s game.
The Villa manager revealed he could not provide details about Watkins’ absence following their significant defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is reportedly in negotiations with the Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Sources indicate that the Villans have rejected FOUR bids for the England international.
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When asked about Watkins’ absence, Emery commented: “It’s best to inquire with him directly. I can’t clarify the situation. My answer is silence.”
When further questioned if Watkins chose not to play, Emery replied: “It’s advisable to check with him. His agent may have more information.”
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“I can’t provide more details. He’s the only one who can clarify his situation; I cannot.”
“I can discuss players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Such situations happen every season, and we’ve learned to manage them.”
“It’s a situation we have to accept and adapt to.”
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Before the game, Emery simply said “silence” when asked if Watkins’ time at the club was finished.
Watkins’ absence, along with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a reliable striker for the match against Brighton.
Brighton managed to score four goals within just 25 minutes, bolstered by outstanding displays from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the game as he contemplates a possible transfer.
Emery has also lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning squad.
Furthermore, newly signed Joao Gomes, who joined for £34 million, will miss Villa’s next home game against Arsenal due to a suspension related to an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on the team’s disappointing display, Emery noted: “We made mistakes that directly led to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control, which surprised us.”
“Conceding four goals is something I’ve never experienced in my four years here.”
“Additionally, the red card had a significant effect on the team’s morale.”
Captain John McGinn issued an apology to the traveling supporters.
He acknowledged: “The goals we allowed were utterly unacceptable. We sincerely apologize to our fans.”
