Unai Emery Comments on Ollie Watkins’ Absence During Aston Villa’s 4-0 Defeat to Brighton Amid Al Hilal Transfer Rumors
UNAI EMERY has hinted 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 behind Watkins’ absence from the squad during their substantial defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old striker is reportedly in talks with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have rejected FOUR bids for the England international.
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When asked about the reasoning behind Watkins’ absence, Emery replied: “You should ask him directly. I cannot provide an answer. My response is silence.”
Upon further questioning regarding whether Watkins had chosen to withdraw, Emery said: “You should perhaps speak with him. His agent could offer more details.”
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“It’s not my place to give out further information. He is the only one who can clarify this. I cannot.”
“I can discuss players such as Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Situations like this arise every season, and we have learned to adjust.”
“It’s something we must accept, and we are continually adapting to it.”
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Before the game, Emery simply stated “silence” when asked if Watkins’ tenure at the club had ended.
Watkins’ absence, together with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a recognized striker for the Brighton match.
Brighton managed to score four goals in just 25 minutes, largely thanks to contributions from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the match as he is contemplating a potential transfer.
Emery has lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning squad as well.
Additionally, new signing Joao Gomes, purchased for £34 million, will miss Villa’s next home match against Arsenal due to a suspension from 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; it was an unusual and unexpected situation.”
“Conceding four goals is an experience I’ve never had during my four years here.”
“Moreover, the red card significantly affected our morale.”
Captain John McGinn extended his apologies to the away supporters.
He commented: “The goals we conceded were entirely unacceptable. We sincerely apologize to our fans.”
