Ellie Watkins, wife of footballer Ollie Watkins, has shared an update on her family’s transition to Saudi Arabia, expressing excitement as they settle into their new life in Riyadh. The move follows Ollie Watkins’ significant transfer from Aston Villa to Saudi club Al-Hilal. Initially, the relocation prompted emotional responses, with Ellie previously admitting to tears over leaving their established life in Birmingham.
Settling into Riyadh
In a recent Instagram update, Ellie Watkins conveyed a more optimistic outlook, stating that “things are starting to come together.” She described feeling “excited” about their new chapter in Riyadh, a sentiment shared as the family navigates the initial stages of their adjustment. The couple, both 30, have moved with their two young children, Amara, aged five, and Marley, aged three, to the Saudi capital.
Ellie documented her efforts to organize their new life, sharing a snapshot from her car with the caption, “I am alive just busy getting organised for our new life in Riyadh. Feeling excited now things are starting to come together.” To mark her progress and perhaps indulge in some self-care amidst the upheaval, she also posted an image of herself receiving a pedicure, humorously remarking, “First things first.”
Navigating Challenges: School and Solo Parenting
Despite the growing sense of optimism, the transition has not been without its hurdles. Ellie revealed that their children’s start at their new school was delayed from the original plan. This unexpected change led to a period of solo parenting while attempting to keep the children entertained and manage other household responsibilities.
Sharing a video of her son enjoying a slide, Ellie candidly described the situation: “And solo parenting. Kids didn’t start school this week as originally planned so trying to keep them entertained and everything else that needs to be done is a juggle.” This situation highlights the common challenges families face when relocating, particularly when school arrangements are disrupted.
A Bittersweet Farewell to Aston Villa
The move to Saudi Arabia marks the end of a significant six-year period for the Watkins family at Aston Villa. Ellie had previously expressed the emotional weight of leaving Birmingham and their life there. In an earlier, tearful TikTok video, she spoke about the suddenness of the transfer and the profound impact it had.
“Okay, well that wasn’t on my bingo card for 2026. 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 but that is the joys of football…” she shared. She reflected on their long tenure at Villa, noting that six years is a considerable time in a footballer’s career. “We’ve had our children there, we’ve had quite big life events so it feels bittersweet to me. I loved my life there, I settled so well and made the most amazing friends…”
In a separate Instagram post, Ellie shared a collection of photos commemorating their favorite memories at Aston Villa. With visible emotion, she wrote, “Anyone that knows me knows how emotional I am, my heart is hurting as we end the most amazing 6 years at Villa. We had our beautiful babies here, made friends for life and have a built a life here that I will always be so grateful for…” She praised Ollie’s career progression, acknowledging both the triumphs and difficulties they experienced together. “Watching Ollie’s career progress here has been so special. I’ve watched some of the highest highs and been there through all of the lows too. I couldn’t be prouder of how much he’s achieved but most importantly the person he has remained through it all…”
Looking Forward to the New Adventure
Despite the emotional farewell to their life in Birmingham and the initial challenges in Riyadh, Ellie expressed a forward-looking perspective. She acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the move but also emphasized the potential benefits for her children and the excitement of a “change of scenery.”
“But 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… Once we are settled and we know what we are doing, it will all be good. Getting on with our new life in Saudi so exciting times…” she stated. She also drew parallels to their move to Birmingham, recalling similar feelings of nervousness that eventually gave way to contentment. “I’m also feeling a little nervous but I remember feeling like that when we moved to Birmingham so hopefully you can follow my journey in Saudi.”
The family’s integration into Saudi life is ongoing, with Ellie sharing glimpses of their early days, including a photo of herself and Ollie at Al Hilal Saudi Club. Dressed stylishly, she captioned the image, “Next chapter,” signaling their commitment to embracing this new phase. The support from friends and fellow WAGs has also been evident in the comments on her posts, underscoring the community that often surrounds professional athletes and their families.
Conclusion
Ellie Watkins’ recent updates suggest a positive shift in her feelings about the family’s relocation to Saudi Arabia. While acknowledging the emotional toll of leaving their established life and navigating unexpected challenges, she is increasingly focusing on the opportunities and excitement that their new adventure in Riyadh holds. The family’s journey continues as they build a new life, balancing the demands of professional sports with the needs of their young children.
