Unai Emery Comments on Ollie Watkins’ Absence During Aston Villa’s 4-0 Defeat to Brighton Amid Al Hilal Transfer Rumors
UNAI EMERY has implied that Ollie Watkins might have chosen to miss the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager mentioned that he was unable to clarify the reasons behind Watkins’ absence from the squad during their heavy loss to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is reportedly in talks with Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Sources suggest that the Villans have rejected FOUR offers for the England international.
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In response to questions about Watkins’ absence, Emery stated: “You should ask him directly. I cannot provide an explanation. My response is silence.”
When asked if Watkins had decided to withdraw, Emery said: “It would be best to talk to him. His agent could provide more information.”
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“It’s not my place to reveal further 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 occur every season, and we’ve had to adapt.”
“It’s something we must accept, and we are always adjusting.”
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Before the match, Emery simply replied “silence” when asked if Watkins’ time at the club had come to an end.
Watkins’ absence, combined with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a recognized striker for the match against Brighton.
Brighton netted four goals within just 25 minutes, largely due to the contributions of Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the match as he considers 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 miss Villa’s next home game against Arsenal due to a suspension following an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on his team’s lackluster performance, Emery remarked: “We made mistakes that directly contributed to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control; this was an unusual and unexpected scenario.”
“Conceding four goals is a situation I’ve never faced during my four years here.”
“Moreover, the red card had a significant effect on our team’s morale.”
Captain John McGinn expressed his apologies to the traveling supporters.
He stated: “The goals we conceded were entirely unacceptable. We sincerely apologize to our fans.”
