Aston Villa are facing an unprecedented summer exodus, with more than half of the starting XI that secured the Europa League trophy in May potentially leaving the club before the transfer window closes in eight days. The departures have raised questions among supporters about whether this is merely a rebuild or something more significant.
Key Players Heading for the Exits
Ollie Watkins was notably absent from the squad for the opening Premier League match against Brighton, alongside goalkeeper Emi Martinez. BirminghamLive reported on Friday that Martinez would not feature, as manager Unai Emery had chosen between Marco Bizot and Zion Suzuki for the goalkeeper position. With Brian Madjo and Tammy Abraham unavailable due to injury, Villa were left without a recognised striker for the fixture.
Emery declined to discuss Watkins' absence before kick-off but suggested in his post-match press conference that the striker was not keen on playing at the Amex, telling reporters to ask his agent why he did not feature. Watkins is reportedly attracted to the lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, although Villa maintain that no agreement is close.
Motivations Behind the Departures
Ezri Konsa also departed after seven years of service, having won the Europa League and made a significant number of appearances. Only Olof Mellberg has made more Premier League appearances for the club among defenders. Konsa's exit was perhaps timely, as Emery had other options in his position.
The reasons for the departures vary. Both Konsa and Watkins were Dean Smith signings and have secured their place in club folklore. Konsa was attracted by the opportunity to join the Premier League champions, while Watkins is drawn to the financial package on offer. Martinez, meanwhile, sought a new challenge, even willing to drop Champions League football for a move to Juventus, who ultimately signed Guglielmo Vicario on loan from Tottenham instead.
Lucas Digne and Youri Tielemans both had release clauses in their contracts and decided their time at Villa had ended on a perfect note, having ended the club's trophy drought. Digne had been commuting from London to Bodymoor Heath for family reasons, making a return to Paris appealing. Tielemans was attracted to Manchester United, a club he admired as a child during the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
Financial and Strategic Implications
Villa felt they received top value for Morgan Rogers, with a £117 million fee representing a record for a British footballer. Rogers has secured a larger contract at Chelsea and was persuaded by the 'project' at Stamford Bridge. However, given the rules limiting Villa's spending on transfer fees and wages, some players may perceive a ceiling at the club, even if Emery does not.
The coming week is critical for Villa's season. Following a 4-0 defeat to Brighton, the club must resolve transfers for Martinez and Leon Bailey, while Watkins' future remains uncertain. If Watkins departs, Villa could target Nicolas Jackson, but Al-Hilal have yet to table a suitable bid.
Bridges will need to be rebuilt with fans who felt let down by Watkins at the weekend, but he clearly hopes his future lies away from the club. For Villa's sake, it might be best if Al-Hilal pay the sum that unlocks Jackson, allowing all parties to move on. Watkins has been great for Villa, and Villa great for Watkins, with Emery elevating his game to new levels. Yet, with no other recognised striker available, Emery could have counted on Watkins to put Villa first one last time.
