Ollie Watkins and his wife Ellie have begun their new life in Saudi Arabia with their two young children following the footballer's transfer from Aston Villa to Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The move, valued at £51 million, prompted an emotional farewell from Ellie Watkins, who documented her feelings on social media.
Ellie Watkins shared on Instagram and TikTok that while the sudden nature of the move left her in shock and with a "hurting heart," she is embracing the "next chapter" and is excited for a change of scenery. She posted photos of their initial days in Riyadh, expressing gratitude for their six years in Birmingham, where they had built a life, had children, and made lasting friendships. She acknowledged the bittersweet nature of leaving behind a life where she felt settled, but anticipates the experience will be positive for their children, Amara, five, and Marley, three.
Watkins, an England international, had been with Aston Villa for six years. His wife noted that this duration is significant in football terms. She expressed pride in his career progress and the person he has remained throughout his time at the club.
Ellie Watkins' experience mirrors that of other partners of players who have moved to Saudi Arabia. Taylor Ward, wife of Riyad Mahrez, also shared her struggles adapting to life in Jeddah after Mahrez's £30 million move to Al-Ahli, highlighting the significant life changes involved.
The couple has settled into their new surroundings, with Ellie posting images of herself and Ollie at the Al Hilal Saudi Club. She described herself as feeling emotional about leaving Birmingham but also acknowledged a degree of nervousness, recalling similar feelings when they first moved to Birmingham.