Unai Emery Discusses 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 chosen to miss the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager mentioned that he was unable to provide any information regarding Watkins’ absence during their significant loss to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is reportedly engaged in discussions with the Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have turned down FOUR offers for the England international.
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When asked about Watkins’ absence, Emery commented: “It’s best to ask him directly. I cannot explain the situation. My answer is silence.”
When inquired if Watkins had chosen to sit out, Emery replied: “It would be more fitting to discuss this with him. His agent might have more details.”
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“I cannot offer any further information. He is the only one who can clarify the situation. I cannot.”
“I can speak about players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Such situations happen every season, and we’ve learned to cope.”
“It’s something we must embrace, and we continue to adapt accordingly.”
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Before the match, Emery simply answered “silence” when asked if Watkins’ time at the club had come to an end.
Watkins’ absence, coupled with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a reliable striker for the game against Brighton.
Brighton netted four goals within just 25 minutes, with significant contributions from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the match 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, brought in for £34 million, will miss Villa’s next home match against Arsenal due to suspension arising from an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on his team’s disappointing performance, Emery commented: “We made mistakes that directly led to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control, which was unexpected and astonishing.”
“Conceding four goals is something I’ve never experienced in my four years here.”
“Additionally, the red card negatively impacted the team’s morale.”
Captain John McGinn extended his apologies to the traveling supporters.
He acknowledged: “The goals we conceded were utterly unacceptable. We sincerely apologize to our fans.”
