Ollie Watkins’ wife moves family back to UK to give children stability

Ellie, the wife of England striker Ollie Watkins, has returned to the United Kingdom with their children because of the security situation and tensions affecting the region.

The decision comes only a few months after Watkins left Aston Villa to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal in a deal worth £60m.

Ellie explained her decision in a video posted on TikTok, saying she wanted to provide the children with a more stable environment while the current situation continues. She added that the family hoped to reunite once tensions had eased.

“I have returned to the United Kingdom and I hope to stay here for some time,” Ellie said, according to Spanish newspaper Marca. “I do not know exactly how long it will take, but because of the conflicts and the current situation in Saudi Arabia, we decided to stay here until things calm down.”

She added: “I felt I had to take this step for my children, to make sure they could have some normality until we are able to be together again.”

Watkins will remain in Saudi Arabia and continue playing for Al-Hilal, meaning he will be apart from his wife and children for the time being.

The 30-year-old forward joined Al-Hilal from Aston Villa for £60m and is reported to earn an annual salary of £24m.

Al-Hilal are listed to face Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League on 07 November 2026.