Emery confirms Watkins’ departure and Jackson’s impending arrival – and hopes he could play against Arsenal

Unai Emery has disclosed the departure of Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa and confirmed the imminent arrival of Nicolas Jackson. The Spanish manager shed a "small tear" over Watkins' move to Al-Hilal, valued at £50 million, after the England international expressed his desire for the lucrative transfer to Saudi Arabia. Watkins ruled himself out of Villa's first Premier League match against Brighton, leaving Emery without a reliable striker following the unavailability of Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo.

Emery praised Watkins' commitment and exceptional behavior throughout his tenure, expressing his disappointment at the player's decision to leave. The Villa boss informed Watkins of his departure with a heartfelt hug and a choked back tear, but wished him all the best in his new Saudi Arabian club and in replacement of Jackson. Emery and Villa team hope that Jackson will be registered in time to face Arsenal on Monday.

Furthermore, Leon Goretzka, recently arrived at the club in good physical condition, could make his debut against the London rivals.