Ex-Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins’ wife ‘holding babies close’ amid Saudi Arabia strikes

Ellie Watkins, the wife of former Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, expressed deep concern on social media after recent attacks in Saudi Arabia. Following Watkins' permanent £51 million transfer to Al-Hilal over the summer, the family relocated to Riyadh, where recent strikes on Saudi airspace and King Khalid International Airport prompted Ellie to share messages saying she is holding her young children close and praying for safety.

On the pitch, the 30-year-old England international has performed strongly, scoring five goals and adding four assists in his first six matches. However, the off-field adjustment has proved challenging for his family, including children Amara and Marley, especially after the UK Foreign Office advised against travel to specific areas following regional escalations.