Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has revealed that Ollie Watkins apologised after refusing to play against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The striker missed Villa’s Premier League opener against Brighton last weekend. Villa suffered a 4-0 defeat in the match.
Watkins’ absence raised questions about his future at the club. Emery later confirmed that the England international admitted he had made a mistake.
”He told us after the Brighton match he was sorry and that he had made a mistake. He was wrong, but we accepted it. The players as well,” Emery said.
The 30-year-old now looks set to leave Villa. He is closing in on a move to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal in a deal worth around £50 million.
Emery praises Watkins
Watkins joined Villa from Brentford in 2020. He leaves after six years at Villa Park.
The striker became Villa’s record Premier League goalscorer. He scored 91 goals in the competition and 108 goals in all competitions.
Despite the controversy over his final appearance, Emery praised Watkins’ contribution to the club.
”His commitment and his behaviour were fantastic. He’s a fantastic guy – a fantastic guy even more than a player,” Emery added. ”I told him ‘bye’ with a huge hug and with small tears.”
Watkins’ expected departure forms part of Villa’s wider squad rebuild. The club has already sold several senior players this summer.
Those departures include Ezri Konsa, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne, Morgan Rogers and Donyell Malen. Goalkeeper Emi Martinez could also leave for Chelsea before the transfer deadline.
Emery defended the club’s decision to sell some of its established players.
”We took decisions because it’s good for the club,” Emery continued. ”Of course, we don’t want to be a club that sells players, but the responsibility is there. It’s crazy [money for someone] 30 years old and £50m for Ezri Konsa [who is 28].”
Jackson arrives as Watkins’ replacement
Villa have already signed Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea. The striker joined in a deal reportedly worth around £65 million.
Emery believes Jackson can lead a new era for Villa’s attack.
”But now it’s a new chapter here with Nicolas Jackson,” he said.
Villa also strengthened their midfield with the arrival of Leon Goretzka. The former Bayern Munich midfielder joined on a free transfer.
Goretzka has won seven Bundesliga titles and a Champions League medal during his career.
”He is a winner. He is a very competitive player – a good player to add to our squad,” Emery said.
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