Ellie Watkins has been offered support by fellow England WAGs after admitting that her “heart is hurting” as she and Ollie Watkins begin a new life in Saudi Arabia.
The family arrived in Riyadh after the England striker completed his move from Aston Villa to Al-Hilal, bringing an abrupt end to six years in Birmingham.
Ellie, who shares two children with Watkins, described the relocation as “bittersweet” in a video posted on TikTok. She said the move had not been expected and that she was still coming to terms with how quickly their circumstances had changed.
“We are in Riyadh, we arrived in Saudi last night and I think I’m still in shock to be honest, like how life can change so quickly,” she said.
She added that the couple had been “very lucky” to spend six years at Villa, where they had welcomed their children, formed lasting friendships and established a home.
“I loved my life there, I settled so well and made the most amazing friends,” Ellie said, becoming emotional as she spoke about leaving Birmingham behind.
Despite her sadness, she said she was looking forward to the family’s next chapter and believed the move would be a positive experience for their children.
“I am excited for a change of scenery, I think it’s going to be amazing for the kids and I think they are going to have the best time ever,” she said.
Ellie also acknowledged that adapting to life in Saudi Arabia would bring some nerves, but said she hoped her followers would join her as the family settled into their new surroundings.
Al-Hilal confirmed on 30 August that Watkins had signed a three-year contract. The Saudi Pro League said the 30-year-old forward left Aston Villa as the club’s record Premier League goalscorer, having scored 91 times during his spell.
Watkins also helped Villa win the Europa League last season, securing the club’s first European trophy in 44 years, before making the move to the Middle East.
