Villa Boss Emery Says It's Down to Watkins to Explain Absence
Villa manager Unai Emery said Watkins can explain his absence after the striker was linked with at least four rejected Al Hilal bids.
- On Sunday, August 23, 2026, Brighton dismantled Aston Villa 4-0 in their Premier League opener, with Aston Villa manager Unai Emery omitting striker Ollie Watkins from the matchday squad amid transfer speculation.
- Villa have rejected at least four bids from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal for Watkins, who is reportedly keen to leave the Europa League winners during a chaotic summer exodus.
- Manager Unai Emery declined to explain the absence, stating, "I can only answer it by silence," while debutant Joao Gomes was sent off in the 40th minute for kicking out at Georginio Rutter.
- The loss compounds instability at Villa, who have already sold key starters Ezri Konsa, Youri Tielemans, Morgan Rogers, and Lucas Digne during an unprecedented summer rebuild.
- With 10 days remaining in the transfer window, Villa must resolve the futures of Watkins and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, both linked with departures before the deadline closes.
62 Articles
62 Articles
Villa boss Emery says it's down to Watkins to explain absence
Villa began their 2026/27 English top-flight campaign without a recognised striker at the Amex Stadium following reports England international Watkins is pushing for a move to Al Hilal. British media reports indicate Europa League champions Villa have rejected at least four bids from the Saudi Pro League club for Watkins. "This question is for him. I can't answer," Emery told a post-match press conference when asked about Watkins's omission from…
He had a score for 4-0 and the opponent reached 31 minutes to liquidate the story.
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The Economic Times
Times of IndiaOllie Watkins faces uncertain Aston Villa future amid Al Hilal transfer interest
Aston Villa faces potential player exits as Ollie Watkins attracts significant transfer interest. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has also expressed a desire for a new challenge this summer. The club has already turned down multiple offers for striker Ollie Watkins from Al Hilal. Manager Unai Emery confirmed the team is preparing for Martínez's potential departure. Aston Villa is actively involved in the transfer market with about ten days remainin…
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