Ellie Watkins, wife of footballer Ollie Watkins, has shared an update on her family's new life in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, stating that 'things are starting to come together.' The couple, both 30, relocated to the Saudi capital following Watkins' £51 million transfer from Aston Villa to Al-Hilal.
Watkins acknowledged the move was not without its challenges, including a delay in her children, Amara, five, and Marley, three, starting their new school. She described the situation as a 'juggle' while trying to keep them entertained and manage other household tasks.
Despite these initial hurdles, Watkins has expressed optimism and excitement for the change of scenery. She recently shared images of herself getting a pedicure, humorously noting, "First things first." She also posted family photos from their early days in Saudi Arabia, including a picture at Al Hilal Saudi Club, captioning it 'Next chapter.'
Previously, Watkins had spoken emotionally about the transition, admitting her "heart is hurting" as they left behind their life in Birmingham after six years with Aston Villa. She shared that she had built a comfortable life there, made friends, and experienced significant life events, including the birth of their children.
"I've always actually said how lucky I think we are because we've been at Villa for six years which in football terms is actually quite a long time," she stated in a video. "We've had our children there, we've had quite big life events so it feels bittersweet to me. I loved my life there, I settled so well and made the most amazing friends."
She conveyed that while leaving was emotional, she is looking forward to the new adventure. "But I am excited for a change of scenery, I think it's going to be amazing for the kids and I think they are going to have the best time ever," she added. She also noted feeling nervous, recalling similar feelings when they first moved to Birmingham, and expressed hope that people would follow her journey in Saudi Arabia.
Reflecting on their time at Aston Villa, Watkins posted photos of her favorite memories, expressing gratitude for the experience and the friendships made. She described it as the "end of our most amazing chapter" and the beginning of a "new adventure."