Aston Villa’s Bold Attempt to Drop Ollie Watkins from Squad in January: What’s Behind the Decision?
Aston Villa’s decision to potentially drop Ollie Watkins from their squad in January has sent shockwaves through the football world. The England international has been a key player for Villa over the past few seasons, and his performances have earned him regular call-ups to the national team. So why, then, would the club consider parting ways with one of their most consistent performers? To understand this bold move, it’s necessary to delve into several layers of context surrounding Villa’s ambitions, squad dynamics, and Watkins’ individual performances.
The Context: Aston Villa’s Rapid Rise Under Unai Emery
Under Unai Emery, Aston Villa has experienced a marked improvement in terms of both results and overall team performance. Since the Spaniard took over in November 2022, Villa has transformed from a mid-table side into a club pushing for European qualification. Emery’s tactical acumen, along with the introduction of new players and a more disciplined style of play, has elevated Villa to new heights. The club’s ambitions are clear: they aim to challenge for the upper echelons of the Premier League and secure a spot in European competitions.
To achieve these lofty goals, however, Emery needs to ensure that his squad is as competitive and versatile as possible. This means that no player, no matter their past contributions, can be immune from scrutiny or potential rotation. It is within this context that Ollie Watkins’ situation becomes more intriguing. The English striker, despite his strong form, may not fit into Emery’s long-term plans or tactical vision for the club.
The Performance Debate: Has Watkins Plateaued?
Ollie Watkins has undoubtedly been one of Villa’s standout performers in recent seasons. His work rate, ability to press defenders, and clinical finishing have been integral to Villa’s success. However, a closer examination of Watkins’ performance in the 2023/24 season reveals a few key factors that may be influencing Villa’s decision.
1. Inconsistency in Front of Goal
While Watkins has had impressive spells in front of goal, his overall consistency remains a point of concern. In the current season, he has faced a dip in form, with a number of key misses in high-pressure moments. This inconsistency in converting chances has been frustrating for Villa fans and, perhaps, the club’s coaching staff as well. Emery, known for his tactical discipline, may prefer a striker who offers not just work rate and positioning but also more clinical finishing when opportunities arise.
2. Tactical Fit and Emery’s System
Unai Emery’s tactical system demands a forward who can not only score goals but also contribute significantly to the team’s build-up play. Watkins has always been known for his energy and off-the-ball movement, but his technical ability to hold up the ball, link play, and operate within tight spaces is often considered a weak point in his game. Emery, who is known for his preference for possession-based football and intricate patterns of play, may find that Watkins’ attributes do not completely align with his tactical vision.
Moreover, Emery’s use of the high press and the need for forwards to contribute defensively has led to Villa acquiring players who are versatile, with the ability to play multiple roles. Watkins, while a great outlet on the counter, might not be the most suited to the intricate pressing system that Emery demands. Therefore, the club may feel that a new signing—perhaps a more well-rounded forward or someone with greater link-up play—would better suit their long-term tactical setup.
3. Competition for Places
Aston Villa’s squad has grown considerably in strength, with several attacking options now available to Emery. Players like Leon Bailey, Moussa Diaby, and John McGinn have all impressed in advanced positions, and Villa have even brought in options that can play centrally or wide. With competition heating up, there may be fewer guaranteed starting spots for Watkins, especially if his form continues to fluctuate. The presence of other attacking players could put pressure on Watkins to maintain peak performance or face the possibility of being dropped.
The Transfer Market Consideration: January Window
January is traditionally a time when clubs assess their squads and look to make moves in the transfer market. For Villa, this presents an opportunity to bolster their attack or reshuffle their forward options. With the club’s European ambitions becoming more concrete, Villa might look to bring in a new striker, particularly if they feel Watkins’ form isn’t up to the required level. There’s always a chance that the club could look to offload him if a tempting offer comes in, especially if they feel the funds could be better spent elsewhere to strengthen other areas of the squad.
There are also whispers that Villa may be looking for a more physical, clinical forward—someone who can lead the line in a more traditional sense, giving Emery more flexibility with his tactics. If this is the case, Watkins’ ability to play a central role could be called into question. He is more of a dynamic forward, often dropping into the channels or pressing high, but may not offer the same physicality and hold-up play as a target man.
Ollie Watkins’ Perspective: The Potential Fallout
For Watkins, the prospect of being dropped or sold in January could be a tough pill to swallow. The 28-year-old has been one of Villa’s most reliable performers since joining from Brentford in 2020. His performances have earned him regular selection for the England national team, and he has often been hailed for his professionalism and commitment. A move away from Villa could potentially derail his international ambitions, particularly with Euro 2024 on the horizon.
However, Watkins is a resilient player, and the current situation could serve as a motivation to improve his performances. If Emery does indeed decide to explore other options in January, Watkins may need to prove that he can adapt to the tactical demands of the club and work harder to regain his starting position. Alternatively, if the club decides to cash in on him, Watkins may seek a move to a club that offers him more consistent playing time, perhaps in a setup that better fits his style.
The Final Verdict: A Strategic Gamble for Villa?
Aston Villa’s decision to consider dropping Ollie Watkins from their squad in January could be seen as a bold move. While he remains a valuable player, there are multiple factors—his inconsistency in front of goal, the tactical fit within Emery’s system, and increasing competition for attacking spots—that could make him expendable. However, the decision also indicates Villa’s growing ambition, as the club looks to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. If Villa’s pursuit of European football is to be realized, the club must ensure that every position is filled with players who fit the manager’s vision.
For Ollie Watkins, the next few months could be pivotal in determining his future at Villa Park. Whether he proves his worth and regains his place in the starting XI, or if the club opts for a fresh direction, will be a storyline worth watching as the January transfer window approaches.
In football, few things are more uncertain than the future of a player—particularly when a club’s ambitions are at stake. The coming weeks will reveal whether Watkins can prove that he is still an indispensable part of Villa’s plans, or whether the club will look to make a change in the striker department.
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