Emery silent on Watkins amid Al Hilal bid
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- Ollie Watkins missed Aston Villa's 4-0 Premier League defeat at Brighton amid transfer interest from Al Hilal, having only returned to training that week.
- Al Hilal has had at least one bid rejected for Watkins, who is reportedly keen on a move to Saudi Arabia.
- Unai Emery responded 'Ask him' and 'silence' when asked to clarify Watkins' absence, declining to confirm whether it was injury- or transfer-related.
- Aston Villa do not want to sell Watkins, but transfer negotiations with Al Hilal are ongoing with 10 days remaining in the window.
- Emery emphasized the commitment of players who are present, referencing past similar situations and stressing the need to find solutions before the transfer deadline.
Why it matters: Aston Villa risks losing a key striker they value amid active talks with Al Hilal, while Emery’s refusal to address the situation directly signals internal tension at a critical point in the season and transfer window. The club’s stance could force a decision under pressure with limited time to reinvest.
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