Aston Villa manager Unai Emery confirmed that striker Ollie Watkins apologized for refusing to play in a recent match against Brighton, as the 30-year-old prepares for a £51m transfer to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Watkins leaves Villa as the club’s record Premier League scorer with 91 goals, and a total of 108 strikes across all competitions since joining from Brentford in 2020 for £28m.
Unai Emery Details Ollie Watkins Apology and Al-Hilal Transfer
Manager Unai Emery addressed the media regarding the exit of his forward, revealing that Watkins expressed regret over making himself unavailable for selection against Brighton. The squad and coaching staff accepted the apology before finalising the player’s departure.
“He told us after the Brighton match he was sorry and that he had made a mistake,” Emery said. “He was wrong, but we accepted it. The players as well.” Emery added that he parted ways with the England forward with “a huge hug and with small tears,” praising the forward’s overall commitment during his tenure.
Nicolas Jackson Arrives as Aston Villa Striker Replacement
Aston Villa moved swiftly to secure a replacement, agreeing to a deal worth £65m for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. Club officials are working to ensure the Senegal striker is registered for Monday’s visit of Arsenal.
The acquisition of Jackson forms a part of Villa’s rebuild. Emery defended the club’s broader transfer strategy, which has seen several experienced figures depart following their successful 2025-26 season. “We took decisions because it’s good for the club,” Emery said. “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].”
Did you know? Ollie Watkins is Villa’s record Premier League scorer with 91 goals, part an overall tally of 108 in all competitions since signing from Brentford for £28m in 2020.
Leon Goretzka Joins Villa in Free Transfer Rebuild
In addition to reshaping the team, Aston Villa bolstered their squad by completing the signing of Leon Goretzka on a free transfer after leaving Bayern Munich at the end of last season. The midfielder arrives boasting a CV that includes seven Bundesliga titles and the Champions League with Bayern.
“He is a winner. He is a very competitive player – a good player to add into our squad,” Emery said of the new arrival. The manager confirmed that Goretzka is versatile and arrives fit and training well, with the hope that on Monday he can be on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the transfer fee for Ollie Watkins?
Ollie Watkins is expected in Saudi Arabia on Friday to complete a £51m move to Al-Hilal.
Who is replacing Ollie Watkins at Aston Villa?
Aston Villa are poised to finalise the signing of Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson for £65m as his replacement.
How many goals did Ollie Watkins score for Aston Villa?
Watkins scored 108 goals in all competitions since signing from Brentford, including a record 91 in the Premier League.
Which midfielder joined Aston Villa from Bayern Munich?
Leon Goretzka completed his move on a free transfer to Villa after leaving Bayern Munich at the end of last season.
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