Aston Villa manager Unai Emery delivered a deeply emotional tribute to striker Ollie Watkins following the striker’s recent apology for refusing to play against Brighton on Sunday. Emery, speaking to reporters, emphasized Watkins’ consistent contributions to the club and the squad’s acceptance of the apology for the refusal.
Emery stated, ‘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,’ said Emery, highlighting the collective acceptance within the squad. This sentiment underscores the club’s commitment to Watkins, who has been a pivotal figure in Aston Villa’s Premier League history.
Watkins’ remarkable record, including 91 goals, 108 in all competitions since joining Brentford for £28m in 2020, is a testament to his consistent performance. He currently holds the record for most Premier League goals with 91, a figure that underscores his sustained excellence.
Furthermore, Emery acknowledged Watkins’ dedication and positive attitude, describing him as a ‘fantastic guy – a fantastic guy even more than a player.’ He then extended a heartfelt hug and tears, conveying a sense of genuine emotion. The video, however, is unavailable for playback.
The club’s strategic decision to finalize a £51 million contract with Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, a replacement for Watkins’ departure, has further highlighted Emery’s focus on building a strong foundation for the future. The club’s plan to sell players, including Leon Goretzka, who completed his move for free on Thursday, reflects a broader restructuring aimed at strengthening the team.
Emery stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between player sales and player acquisitions, stating, ‘We take decisions because it’s good for the club.’ He expressed concerns about the potential for losing valuable players, acknowledging the considerable financial investment made in Watkins. The club’s recent focus on rebuilding and strengthening the squad suggests a deliberate strategy to ensure the long-term success of the team.
In the context of Watkins’ recent arrival, the club’s intention to ‘rebuild the team as fast as possible’ is evident. The club’s commitment to providing opportunities for players to grow and develop is a key element of its strategy. Emery concluded by emphasizing the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for the players, stating, ‘We have to rebuild the team as fast as possible. [Fans] have to accept our way and why we are taking some decisions.’ The focus on a new squad structure demonstrates a commitment to long-term stability and a clear vision for the future of the club.”
**Source:** BBC Football
Watch Related Video
Source: BBC Football
