Ollie Watkins apologizes to Aston Villa after missing Brighton match

Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins has returned to training and apologized to his teammates after missing the club’s Premier League season opener, a 4-0 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion. Watkins’ absence followed reports that he had expressed a desire to leave the club.

Villa has reportedly rejected four offers from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, including a recent £45 million bid, for the striker. While the club has offered Watkins a new contract running until 2030 to retain his services, his future remains uncertain. Manager Unai Emery declined to provide specific details regarding Watkins' absence, stating that questions regarding the player's motivations should be directed to his representatives.

In addition to Watkins, Aston Villa is managing other squad changes. The club recently sold midfielder Morgan Rogers for £117 million and has rejected an £8.5 million bid from Juventus for goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Should Watkins depart, Villa has identified Nicolas Jackson, Rafael Leao, and Jean Philippe Mateta as potential targets.