Emery cryptically addresses Watkins' absence in Aston Villa's loss
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 5:20 PM
Last updated Aug 23, 2026
Unai Emery, manager of Aston Villa, provided vague answers regarding Ollie Watkins' absence during the Premier League match against Brighton. Watkins did not travel for the 4-0 defeat amid ongoing transfer interest from Al Hilal, which has made at least one rejected bid for the striker. Although Watkins only returned to training recently, he is reportedly keen on a move to Saudi Arabia. Emery indicated that the situation was partly out of his control, emphasizing the commitment of the available players. Discussions between Aston Villa and Al Hilal about a possible transfer continue as the transfer window approaches its end.
- •Ollie Watkins missed the match due to transfer interest from Al Hilal.
- •Aston Villa lost 4-0 to Brighton in their season opener.
- •Emery stated that the decision regarding Watkins was not solely his.
- •Al Hilal's interest includes at least one rejected bid for Watkins.
- •Discussions between Aston Villa and Al Hilal are ongoing.
- 5:20 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Only he can explain’ – Emery on Watkins’ absence and Villa’s heavy defeat to Brighton
"Aston Villa boss Unai Emery refused to explain Ollie Watkins’ absence from their 4-0 defeat to Brighton, instead directing questions over the striker’s situation to his agent.Watkins was left out ...
"Unai Emery gave a coy and cryptic response to questions about Ollie Watkins' absence from Aston Villa's squad for their Premier League defeat at Brighton.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 23, 2026, 5:20 PM‘Only he can explain’ – Emery on Watkins’ absence and Villa’s heavy defeat to Brighton
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery refused to explain Ollie Watkins’ absence from their 4-0 defeat to Brighton, instead directing questions over the striker’s situation to his agent.Watkins was left out ...
- Sky Sports—'Ask him' - Emery cryptic on Watkins amid transfer interest
Unai Emery gave a coy and cryptic response to questions about Ollie Watkins' absence from Aston Villa's squad for their Premier League defeat at Brighton.
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