Villa Boss Emery Says It's Down to Watkins to Explain Absence
Aston Villa began without a recognised striker as four Al Hilal bids were rejected and manager Unai Emery said Watkins could still leave.
- Brighton defeated Aston Villa 4-0 on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the Amex Stadium, with star striker Ollie Watkins notably absent from the matchday squad amid transfer speculation to Saudi Arabia.
- Watkins's omission followed reports that Aston Villa rejected four bids from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, with the England international reportedly pushing for a move before the transfer window closes.
- Brighton scored all four goals within 31 minutes, while Villa's debutant midfielder Joao Gomes received a straight red card in the 40th minute for kicking out at Georginio Rutter.
- Manager Unai Emery declined to explain Watkins's absence, telling reporters, "I can only answer it by silence," and directing inquiries to the player or his agent.
- With approximately 10 days remaining in the transfer window, Villa faces pressure to resolve the Watkins situation or integrate replacements, as Emery acknowledged surprise at the scale of the summer exodus.
59 Articles
59 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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