Ellie Watkins, wife of footballer Ollie Watkins, has expressed profound emotional distress regarding the family's abrupt relocation to Saudi Arabia following her husband's transfer from Aston Villa to Saudi club Al-Hilal. The striker, 30, completed a £51 million move, concluding a six-year tenure with Aston Villa.

The sudden transition necessitates a new life in Riyadh for Ollie, Ellie, and their two young children, Amara, aged five, and Marley, aged three. Ellie, also 30, shared her feelings in an emotional TikTok video, describing the move as unexpected and a significant life change.

"I think I'm still in shock to be honest like how life can change so quickly but that is the joys of football," she stated. Reflecting on their time in Birmingham, she noted, "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."

While tearing up, she added, "I am feeling quite emotional about leaving that behind. 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 also admitted to feeling nervous but drew parallels to their initial move to Birmingham.

In a separate Instagram post, Ellie chronicled cherished memories from their six years at Aston Villa. "My heart is hurting as we end the most amazing 6 years at Villa," she wrote. "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."

Ollie Watkins' wife Ellie, both 30, broke down in tears over her family's sudden move to Saudi Arabia on Sunday after the footballer was transferred to Al-Hilal

She expressed pride in Ollie's career progression, stating, "I’ve watched some of the highest highs and been there through all of the lows too. I couldn’t be prouder of how much he’s achieved but most importantly the person he has remained through it all." She concluded by calling it "the end of our most amazing chapter. Now it’s time for a new adventure."

The notes also referenced fellow footballer's wife Taylor Ward, who experienced similar difficulties adjusting to life in Saudi Arabia after her husband Riyad Mahrez's move to Al-Ahli. Ward detailed her struggles on the reality show "Married To The Game," expressing concerns about the significant life changes.

The England player completed a £51million move as he bid farewell to his beloved team Aston Villa after six years

It has meant Ollie and his influencer wife have had to relocate and build a new life in Saudi with their two young children, Amara, five, and Marley, three