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 skip the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager mentioned that he was unable to clarify the reasons behind Watkins’ absence during their substantial defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old forward is reportedly in talks with Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have rejected FOUR offers 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 response is silence.”
When asked if Watkins had opted out, Emery replied: “It would be better to discuss this with him. His agent may have more information.”
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“It’s not for me to share any further information. He is the only one who can clarify. I cannot.”
“I can discuss players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Such situations occur every season, and we’ve adapted to them.”
“It’s something we must accept, and we continually make adjustments.”
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Before the match, Emery simply replied “silence” when asked if Watkins’ time at the club was over.
Watkins’ absence, along with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a recognized striker for the match against Brighton.
Brighton scored four goals within just 25 minutes, with significant contributions from Jack Hinshelwood and Maxim De Cuyper.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also missed the match as he contemplates a potential transfer.
Emery has lost Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans from his Europa League-winning team.
Additionally, new signing Joao Gomes, acquired for £34 million, will miss Villa’s next home encounter against Arsenal due to a suspension stemming from an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on his team’s poor performance, Emery stated: “We made mistakes that led directly 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 experienced in my four years here.”
“Moreover, the red card had a significant impact on the team’s morale.”
Captain John McGinn expressed his apologies to the traveling supporters.
He said: “The goals we conceded were wholly unacceptable. We truly apologize to our fans.”
