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NEWS · 28 Aug 2026

Watkins apologises for refusing to play as he departs Villa

Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa’s record Premier League goalscorer, has announced his departure from the club and issued an apology for refusing to play in a recent match. The striker’s exit marks the end of a prolific period at Villa Park, while manager Emery reflects on the situation.

Ollie Watkins has confirmed he will leave Aston Villa at the end of the season, ending a tenure that saw him become the club’s record Premier League goalscorer. His departure follows a controversial episode in which he refused to take the field during a match, a decision that prompted an apology from the forward.

In a statement, Watkins expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging that his refusal to play had disappointed fans and teammates alike. He thanked the club for its support over the years and said he would focus on making the most of his remaining time at Villa.

Watkins’ career at Aston Villa began in 2015, and he quickly established himself as a key player, scoring 73 Premier League goals for the club. His goal tally has set a new record for the club’s top scorer in the league, surpassing previous marks set by former Villa legends.

The incident and subsequent apology have highlighted the pressures faced by modern footballers, especially when dealing with injuries or personal matters. For Villa, it underscores the importance of maintaining discipline and cohesion within the squad.

With Watkins’ contract set to expire, the club will need to decide whether to pursue a new signing to fill the void left by his departure or to promote talent from within the academy. Meanwhile, Watkins will likely look for a new club where he can continue his goal‑scoring form in the Premier League or elsewhere in Europe.