Unai Emery Comments on 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 not to participate in the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager mentioned he could not clarify the reasons for Watkins’ omission from the squad during their significant defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is reportedly in talks with Saudi Arabian 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 the reasons behind Watkins’ absence, Emery said: “You should ask him directly. I cannot provide an answer. My response is silence.”
When inquired whether Watkins had opted to withdraw, Emery replied: “You might want to speak with him. His agent could share more insights.”
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“It’s not my responsibility to share additional details. He is the only one who can clarify this. I cannot.”
“I can discuss players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Such situations arise every season, and we’ve learned to adjust.”
“It’s something we must accept, and we are always adapting to it.”
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Before the match, Emery simply stated “silence” when questioned if Watkins’ time at the club had concluded.
Watkins’ absence, coupled with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a recognized striker for the fixture against Brighton.
Brighton managed to net four goals in just 25 minutes, primarily due to contributions from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the match as he contemplates a potential transfer.
Emery has also lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning squad.
Additionally, new signing Joao Gomes, acquired for £34 million, will sit out Villa’s next home game against Arsenal due to a suspension following an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on his team’s inadequate performance, Emery remarked: “We made mistakes that directly contributed to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we entirely lost our grip; this was an unusual and unforeseen situation.”
“Conceding four goals is an experience I’ve never faced during my four years here.”
“Moreover, the red card significantly affected our morale.”
Captain John McGinn extended his apologies to the traveling supporters.
He stated: “The goals we conceded were absolutely unacceptable. We genuinely apologize to our fans.”
