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Aston Villa confirms £50 million Ollie Watkins transfer

8/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Aston Villa confirmed Ollie Watkins' £50 million transfer to Saudi club Al Hilal.
Watkins missed Villa's 4-0 season-opening loss to Brighton after refusing to play.
Paul Merson described Watkins' refusal as “disgusting at the highest level”.
Watkins returned to training on Monday and apologized to teammates.

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Story summary

Aston Villa confirmed Ollie Watkins' £50 million transfer to Saudi club Al Hilal.
Watkins missed Villa's 4-0 season-opening loss to Brighton after refusing to play.
Paul Merson described Watkins' refusal as “disgusting at the highest level”.
Watkins returned to training on Monday and apologized to teammates.