Unai Emery Discusses Ollie Watkins’ Absence in Aston Villa’s 4-0 Defeat to Brighton Amidst Al Hilal Transfer Rumors
UNAI EMERY has indicated that Ollie Watkins may have chosen to miss the match for Aston Villa.
The Villa manager noted that he couldn’t share any specifics concerning Watkins’ absence during their significant defeat to Brighton.
The 30-year-old striker is reportedly in discussions with the Saudi club Al-Hilal this summer.
Reports suggest that the Villans have rejected FOUR offers for the England international.
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When asked about Watkins’ absence, Emery stated: “It’s better to ask him directly. I cannot clarify the situation. My answer is silence.”
When inquired if Watkins had chosen to sit out, Emery replied: “It would be advisable to speak to him. His agent may have more details.”
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“I cannot give any more information. He is the only one who can clarify the situation. I can’t.”
“I’m able to talk about players like Emiliano Buendia, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn.”
“Such issues arise every season, and we’ve learned to adjust.”
“It’s something we have to accept, and we need to adapt accordingly.”
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Before the match, Emery simply responded “silence” when asked if Watkins’ time at the club had ended.
Watkins’ absence, along with injuries to Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo, left Emery without a reliable striker for the match against Brighton.
Brighton netted four goals within just 25 minutes, with noteworthy 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.
Moreover, new signing Joao Gomes, acquired for £34 million, will miss Villa’s next home match against Arsenal due to a suspension from an incident involving Georginio Rutter.
Reflecting on the team’s disappointing performance, Emery remarked: “We made errors that directly led to their goals.”
“In the first 20 to 25 minutes, we completely lost control, which was unexpected and surprising.”
“Conceding four goals is something I’ve never experienced in my four years here.”
“Additionally, the red card negatively impacted the team’s spirit.”
Captain John McGinn extended his apologies to the traveling supporters.
He acknowledged: “The goals we conceded were entirely unacceptable. We truly apologize to our fans.”
