Ollie Watkins apologized to Aston Villa squad before exit

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery disclosed that striker Ollie Watkins apologized to his teammates after making himself unavailable for the club's recent Premier League match against Brighton. This apology came as Watkins prepares to finalize a reported £51 million transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, concluding his five-year tenure at Villa Park.

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He told us after the Brighton match he was sorry and that he had made a mistake. He was wrong, but we accepted it. The players as well.

Emery stated that Watkins admitted his mistake following the Brighton game, acknowledging he was wrong. Both the manager and the squad accepted his apology. Watkins leaves Aston Villa as the club's record Premier League goalscorer, having netted 91 league goals and 108 across all competitions since his £28 million move from Brentford in 2020.

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His commitment and his behaviour was fantastic. He’s a fantastic guy – a fantastic guy even more than a player.

Emery offered an emotional tribute to Watkins, commending his exceptional commitment and behavior throughout his time at the club. "His commitment and his behaviour was fantastic. He’s a fantastic guy – a fantastic guy even more than a player," Emery said, describing a heartfelt farewell with a hug and "small tears."

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I told him ‘bye’ with a huge hug and with small tears.

The club is actively working to secure Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea as Watkins' replacement, aiming to register the Senegal striker in time for Monday's match against Arsenal. Emery views Jackson's arrival as the start of a new chapter for Villa. He also defended the club's transfer strategy amid other player departures, emphasizing that decisions were made in the club's best interests. Additionally, Villa has strengthened their midfield with the free transfer of Leon Goretzka from Bayern Munich, whom Emery described as a "winner" and a "very competitive player."

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But now it’s a new chapter here with Nicolas Jackson.