Ollie Watkins and his wife Ellie are settling into their new life in Saudi Arabia with their two children, marking a significant transition following the footballer's transfer from Aston Villa to Al-Hilal. The couple, both 30, relocated to Riyadh after Watkins' £51 million move to the Saudi club.
Ellie Watkins shared her emotional journey on social media, expressing both sadness at leaving their life in Birmingham and excitement for the new adventure. In a TikTok video, she described the move as a "next chapter" and admitted she was still in shock at how quickly life can change. She reflected on their six years at Aston Villa as a "long time in football terms," during which they had their children and built a life. "I loved my life there, I settled so well and made the most amazing friends," she stated, tearing up as she spoke about leaving them behind. Despite the emotional farewell, she expressed optimism for the change of scenery and the positive impact it would have on their children, Amara, five, and Marley, three.
In an Instagram post, Ellie shared photos of her favorite memories at Aston Villa, writing that her "heart is hurting" as they ended "the most amazing 6 years at Villa." She expressed gratitude for the friendships made and the life they built, calling it the "end of our most amazing chapter" and the start of "a new adventure."
Ellie Watkins also noted her nervousness about the move but recalled similar feelings when they first moved to Birmingham. She shared photos of their initial days in Saudi Arabia, including a picture of herself and Ollie at Al Hilal Saudi Club. She appeared stylish in an off-white ensemble and a Hermes Birkin bag.
The experience of moving to Saudi Arabia has also been highlighted by other footballer's partners. Taylor Ward, wife of Riyad Mahrez, also struggled with her move to Jeddah after his £30 million transfer to Al-Ahli, a sentiment captured in the reality show "Married To The Game."