Aston Villa manager Unai Emery offered a cryptic response when questioned about Ollie Watkins' absence from the squad during the team's 4-0 loss to Brighton, hinting at the striker's reluctance to play amid reported interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal.
Aston Villa has stated that they have rejected four offers from Al-Hilal for Watkins. The striker was not included in the matchday squad, despite the club's other forwards, Brian Madjo and Tammy Abraham, being sidelined with injuries. Sources indicate that Watkins is neither ill nor injured, and it is understood he did not train fully in the week leading up to the match.
When asked about Watkins' status, Emery stated, "This question is for him. I can answer only with my silence." He further elaborated, "I think you can call him, you can call his agent and he can respond." When pressed on whether he felt let down by the player, Emery added, "He can only explain his answer, I can’t. We had two strikers injured and another striker – it’s his answer."
The match saw Aston Villa concede four goals within the first 31 minutes. Joao Gomes received a red card on his Premier League debut for the club. Brighton's goals came from a Victor Lindelof own-goal, a Maxim De Cuyper tap-in, and a quick double from Jack Hinshelwood.
This situation arises as Aston Villa has been navigating financial regulations, having sold approximately £250 million worth of talent this summer. Players like Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne, and Ezri Konsa have departed, with Watkins and goalkeeper Emi Martinez also absent from the squad. These players were key to the team that won the Europa League in May.
Emery commented on the challenges posed by the transfer window, stating, "I think the transfer window should always be closed. In the last three years, until the transfer window closes, we have had problems like we are having now. The players have the mentality I want – not complaining, not blaming, and trying to be patient, even with results like today. We have had this problem (with the window) every season and we overcame it. But it’s something hard for us every year."
Brighton also saw some key players absent. Manager Fabian Hurzeler noted that Yankuba Minteh has an ankle injury and Carlos Baleba was not featured, with both players reportedly attracting interest from Liverpool and Manchester United, respectively. Hurzeler expressed satisfaction with his team's performance despite the absences and a red card in the second half, emphasizing the team's ability to adapt.
