Ollie Watkins begins successful Al-Hilal stint after Saudi Pro League move

Footballer Ollie Watkins has made a successful start at his new club, Al-Hilal, following a €60 million transfer from Aston Villa to the Saudi Pro League. Watkins scored in his debut during a 3-1 win over Al-Ahli and subsequently featured in a 2-0 victory against Al-Shabab.

Following the relocation to Riyadh, Watkins' wife, Ellie, expressed her emotions regarding the sudden life change via social media. She noted that moving to Saudi Arabia was not part of her plans for 2026 and described the experience of closing their chapter in Birmingham as “heartbreaking.”

Watkins commented on the high quality of the league, stating that the standard of play and the physical demands were comparable to the Premier League.