Watkins apologised for refusing to play - Emery

What the report says

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has paid tribute to Ollie Watkins as the striker prepares to leave the club for Saudi side Al-Hilal, according to BBC Sport. Emery said Watkins apologised after refusing to play against Brighton on Sunday, and that he and the squad accepted the apology. He described the England forward’s conduct during his Villa spell as strong and said their farewell was emotional.

Watkins, 30, is expected to complete a reported £51m move, with Villa also moving to bring in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson for about £65m as a replacement. Watkins joined Villa from Brentford in 2020 for £28m and has become the club’s record Premier League scorer with 91 goals, or 108 in all competitions. BBC Sport reported that Villa hope to register Jackson in time for Monday’s Premier League match against Arsenal.

Emery said the transfer decisions are being made for the club’s long-term benefit, even if they mean selling key players. He also noted that Villa are rebuilding the squad quickly. As part of that process, Leon Goretzka has arrived on a free transfer after leaving Bayern Munich, adding experience and versatility to midfield. The moves underline Villa’s active end-of-window reshaping of the team.