Ellie Watkins, wife of footballer Ollie Watkins, has shared a positive update on her family's new life in Saudi Arabia, indicating that "things are coming together" as they settle into Riyadh following Watkins' transfer from Aston Villa to Al-Hilal.
Watkins, 30, who previously expressed emotional challenges with the move, took to Instagram to share her current feelings. "I am alive just busy getting organised for our new life in Riyadh. Feeling excited now things are starting to come together," she wrote, accompanying a photo of herself in a car. She also shared a moment of pampering, posting a picture of herself receiving a pedicure with the caption, "First things first."
The family, including their two young children, Amara, five, and Marley, three, relocated to Riyadh after Watkins' £51 million transfer. Despite initial plans, the children did not start their new school as scheduled, presenting a challenge for Ellie as she juggles parenting and organizing their new life. "Kids didn't start school this week as originally planned so trying to keep them entertained and everything else that needs to be done is a juggle," she admitted.
Earlier in the week, Ellie had shared family photos from their initial days in Saudi Arabia, appearing content and stylish in an off-white ensemble and a Hermes Birkin bag at Al Hilal Saudi Club. She captioned the series of images from Ollie's welcome, "Next chapter," receiving supportive comments from friends, including fellow partners of footballers.
Last week, Ellie had documented her emotional journey with the move in a TikTok video, describing it as "bittersweet" to leave their life in Birmingham after six years at Aston Villa. "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... 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 said, her voice tearing up.
Despite the emotional departure from their established life and friendships in England, she expressed optimism for the future. "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... Once we are settled and we know what we are doing, it will all be good. Getting on with our new life in Saudi so exciting times... I'm also feeling a little nervous but I remember feeling like that when we moved to Birmingham so hopefully you can follow my journey in Saudi."
In a separate Instagram post, Ellie shared photos reflecting on her favorite memories at Aston Villa, expressing gratitude for the past six years. "Anyone that knows me knows how emotional I am, my heart is hurting as we end the most amazing 6 years at Villa. We had our beautiful babies here, made friends for life and have a built a life here that I will always be so grateful for," she wrote. She also reflected on Ollie's career achievements and the supportive community they found. "It’s the end of our most amazing chapter. Now it’s time for a new adventure."