Unai Emery Confirms 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 opted not to take part in the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager mentioned that he was unable to give a reason for Watkins’ omission from the squad during their significant defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old striker is said to be in discussions with the Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have declined FOUR offers for the England forward.
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When questioned about Watkins’ absence, Emery replied: “This is a question you should direct to him. I cannot provide an answer. My response is silence.”
When asked further whether Watkins had chosen to withdraw, Emery stated: “You may want to reach out to him. His agent might provide you with more details.”
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“It’s not my place to provide further details. He is the only one able to clarify the situation. I cannot.”
“I can discuss players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“These situations arise every season, and we’ve learned to adapt.”
“It’s something we must accept, and we consistently adjust to it.”
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Prior to the match, Emery simply stated “silence” when asked if Watkins’ tenure at the club had concluded.
Watkins’ absence, along with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a recognized striker for the clash against Brighton.
Brighton netted four goals in just 25 minutes, with contributions from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was also absent from the match as he contemplates a potential transfer.
Emery has also lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning lineup.
Additionally, new signing Joao Gomes, bought for £34 million, will miss Villa’s upcoming home match against Arsenal due to a suspension after an altercation with Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on his team’s lackluster performance, Emery remarked: “We made errors that directly contributed to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control; it was an unusual and odd situation.”
“Allowing four goals is something I haven’t encountered during my time here in the last four years.”
“Moreover, the red card had a considerable effect on our morale.”
Captain John McGinn expressed regret to the traveling fans.
He remarked: “The goals we conceded were absolutely unacceptable. We sincerely apologize to our supporters.”
