Unai Emery offers cryptic response regarding Ollie Watkins’ absence
Unai Emery delivered a cryptic response when questioned about Ollie Watkins after the Aston Villa striker was left out of the squad to face Brighton amid mounting speculation over his future, reports BritPanorama.
Watkins was a notable absentee for Villa’s opening Premier League fixture on the south coast on Sunday, having also missed last week’s Super Cup defeat against Paris Saint-Germain. The uncertainty surrounding Watkins left Villa without a recognised senior striker for their first domestic assignment of the campaign.
Emery was inevitably questioned about his striker before kick-off at Brighton but initially refused to be drawn into specifics. After a lengthy pause when Watkins’ name was mentioned, the Villa manager simply replied: “Silence.” When probed on whether supporters should read anything into that response, Emery added: “No, no, no. We are [with] the players we have today here. It’s ok. They’re the ones we’re speaking about.”
In the absence of Watkins, Emiliano Buendia was selected to operate as a false nine, illustrating Emery’s attempts to navigate the situation while discussions over Watkins’ future continue. Al-Hilal have reportedly submitted an offer worth £38.5 million for the 30-year-old, looking to secure another high-profile Premier League recruit for the Saudi Pro League.
As the transfer deadline approaches, Villa have been assessing potential attacking reinforcements. Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson has emerged as a possible option should Watkins depart, given his current lack of game time at Stamford Bridge. Losing Watkins would represent a significant decision for Villa, given his importance to Emery’s side.
The former Brentford forward played a major role in their historic campaign last season, as Villa ended their long wait for silverware by lifting the Europa League trophy. Watkins scored five times during the successful European run and added another 16 Premier League goals, solidifying his place in the England set-up with selection in the 26-man squad for the summer’s World Cup.
Since joining Villa, Watkins has established himself as one of the club’s most reliable performers in front of goal, scoring 108 times across 278 appearances and becoming a central figure during Villa’s resurgence under Emery. However, his absence against Brighton will increase scrutiny over whether his time in the Midlands is approaching its conclusion, with Al-Hilal pushing to secure his signature and Villa examining the market for possible replacements in the coming days.
In football, uncertainty often breeds speculation; the final whistle may come long after the match is over for those who dwell off the pitch. The developments around Watkins promise to keep fans and pundits alike on the edge of their seats.
