Watkins' £51 million switch sparks Al‑Hilal boost amid Villa unrest
On 1 September 2026, England striker Ollie Watkins made his debut for Al‑Hilal in Saudi Arabia, heading the third goal in a 3‑0 victory over Al‑Ahli. The 30‑year‑old had completed a £51 million transfer from Aston Villa only three days earlier, instantly rewarding the Saudi club’s investment.
Al‑Hilal’s rationale for splashing £51 million
Al‑Hilal secured Watkins for a reported £51 million, banking on his England pedigree to strengthen a side already dominant in the Saudi league. The former Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, now in charge of Al‑Hilal, praised the striker’s ability to add a different dimension to the attack.
Villa had turned down four offers from Al‑Hilal the week before, indicating the Saudi club’s persistence in acquiring the England international despite the English side’s resistance.
Watkins makes an instant mark
Watkins entered the match at half‑time and, in the 86th minute, nodded a low header past Al‑Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to seal the third goal. His contribution helped Al‑Hilal secure a 3‑0 win over the ten‑man side on Tuesday night.
The encounter was billed as a showdown between back‑up England forwards Watkins and Ivan Toney, and the former Aston Villa man emerged as the decisive figure.
Villa turmoil and fan reaction
Prior to the transfer, Watkins appeared to refuse training in an effort to force the move, prompting criticism from Aston Villa supporters who accused him of abandoning the club. Fans flooded social media with messages aimed at his wife Ellie and even posted snake emojis, while some called his decision a betrayal.
Villa manager Unai Emery responded by saying he could only remain silent on the matter, noting that two strikers were injured and that the player could explain himself directly.
Villa’s recent form has been poor, with a 4‑0 opening‑day defeat by Brighton followed by a 1‑0 loss to Arsenal, marking their second defeat of the season as the transfer window remains open and adding pressure on Emery.