Ollie Watkins' football journey epitomises the virtues of perseverance and innate talent, evolving from his grassroots beginnings at Buckland Athletic to becoming a pivotal figure for the England national team. His career reached a significant milestone with a decisive goal in the Euro 2024 final against the Netherlands, showcasing his development into a top-tier striker.
Watkins' formative years were spent at Exeter City’s academy, which he joined in 2004 after several stints with local clubs. His professional breakthrough arrived in 2017 when he signed with Brentford. Over three seasons, he made a substantial impact, netting 49 goals in 143 appearances, which ultimately caught the attention of Aston Villa. The club secured his services in 2020, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Upon his arrival at Villa Park, Watkins made an unforgettable debut, scoring a perfect hat-trick in a stunning 7-2 victory over Liverpool, the reigning champions at the time. This remarkable performance set the tone for an impressive season for Aston Villa, culminating in the club's qualification for the Champions League for the first time since 1983. On the international front, Watkins has represented England 18 times, scoring five goals, including the crucial strike that propelled his team into the Euro 2024 final.
As Aston Villa progresses to the Round of 16 in the Champions League, Watkins stands ready to showcase his talents on this prestigious stage. His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed, with interest from other Premier League clubs reportedly brewing as they consider potential summer transfers for the gifted forward.
Financially, Watkins has enjoyed a successful tenure at Aston Villa, with his net worth estimated at £21 million, according to figures from Salary Sport. His current contract, reportedly valued at £120,000 per week, runs until 2027. Following a contract extension in 2023, his annual earnings surged from approximately £2 million to around £6.3 million. Additionally, Watkins has secured endorsements with brands such as Boots, BYD, and Ted Baker, further enhancing his financial portfolio.
In his personal life, Watkins has been in a committed relationship with his fiancée, Ellie Alderson, since their time together at Brentford. Alderson moved to Birmingham with him when he joined Villa and has a background in interior design. She has also supplemented their income through clothing sales on LTK. The couple welcomed their first child, Amara May, shortly after Watkins' transfer to Aston Villa, and they celebrated the birth of their son, Marley, on April 17, 2023. After six years together, Watkins proposed to Alderson, and they became engaged on July 31, 2024.
However, not all moments have been without controversy. During a Premier League match against Brentford in December 2023, tensions flared when Watkins celebrated a goal in front of the home fans, leading to some backlash. In an interview with Sky Sports following the match, he addressed the situation, stating, "There was one person who was abusing me all game; the celebration wasn't to anyone else but it was directed directly at him." This incident has been perceived as a pivotal moment in Watkins' career, highlighting the emotional intensity of football rivalries and the challenges players face in high-pressure environments.
As Ollie Watkins continues to shine for Aston Villa and the England national team, his journey from grassroots to glory serves as an inspiring narrative in the world of football, reflecting both his individual talent and the collective spirit of the clubs he represents.