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 may have chosen to sit out the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager mentioned that he couldn’t clarify the reasons behind Watkins’ absence during their heavy defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is allegedly in talks with Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have rejected FOUR bids for the England international.
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In response to inquiries about Watkins’ absence, Emery stated: “You should ask him directly. I can’t provide an explanation. My answer is silence.”
When asked if Watkins had chosen to withdraw, Emery replied: “It would be preferable to speak with him. His agent may offer more information.”
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“It’s not my place to share more 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 learned to adapt.”
“It’s something we need to accept, and we are continually making adjustments.”
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Before the match, Emery simply replied “silence” when asked if Watkins’ tenure at the club was over.
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 in just 25 minutes, with significant contributions from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the game while contemplating a potential transfer.
Emery has also lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning squad.
Furthermore, new signing Joao Gomes, acquired for £34 million, will miss Villa’s next home match against Arsenal due to a suspension stemming from an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on his team’s subpar performance, Emery remarked: “We made mistakes that directly led to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control, which was an unusual and unexpected situation.”
“Conceding four goals is something I’ve never faced in my four years here.”
“Additionally, the red card had a considerable effect on our team’s spirit.”
Captain John McGinn expressed his apologies to the traveling supporters.
He noted: “The goals we conceded were totally unacceptable. We sincerely apologize to our fans.”
