Ollie Watkins Apologizes as Transfer to Al-Hilal Nears

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery revealed that striker Ollie Watkins apologized for refusing to play against Brighton, admitting it was a mistake. Watkins is nearing a £51 million transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, expected to finalize on August 28, ending his six-year stay at Villa Park.

He joined Aston Villa from Brentford for £28 million in 2020 and leaves as the club's record Premier League scorer with 91 league goals and 108 in all competitions. Emery expressed emotional sentiments about Watkins, stating he is a fantastic person beyond his footballing skills.

As Watkins departs, Aston Villa has agreed to a £65 million deal with Chelsea for Senegal striker Nicolas Jackson as his replacement and has also signed Leon Goretzka on a free transfer from Bayern Munich. Emery urged fans to trust the club's decisions regarding player sales and the need for squad restructuring after a successful 2025/2026 campaign.