“I will never forgive Arteta for what he did last night that caused my deal to fall through. He denied me the chance to play for my dream club, Arsenal,” says Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, expressing his frustration over Arteta’s decision that led to the collapse of his transfer, despite a verbal agreement.

Ollie Watkins Furious as Arsenal Move Collapses Due to Arteta’s Last-Minute Decision

In a shocking turn of events, Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins has expressed his deep frustration after his dream move to Arsenal fell apart at the last minute. The English striker, who was reportedly on the verge of signing for the Gunners, has blamed Mikel Arteta for the deal’s collapse, stating that he will “never forgive” the Arsenal manager for his decision.

According to reports, Arsenal and Aston Villa had reached a verbal agreement late last night for Watkins’ transfer. The 28-year-old forward, a lifelong Arsenal fan, was excited about the opportunity to join the North London club and had already made preparations for the move. However, Arteta intervened at the last moment and canceled the deal due to one key condition that could not be met.

While the exact details of the condition remain undisclosed, sources suggest that Arteta had concerns over certain contractual demands or the structure of the transfer.

Some reports indicate that Arsenal’s manager wanted Watkins to accept a reduced role in the squad, possibly as a backup to Gabriel Jesus, a condition the player was unwilling to agree to. Others believe that financial constraints or Villa’s last-minute demands played a role in the failed negotiations.

Speaking to close associates, Watkins could not hide his disappointment. “Arteta deprived me of the opportunity to play for my dream club. I had already envisioned myself in an Arsenal shirt, but he pulled the plug at the last minute. I will never forgive him for this,” he reportedly said.

Arsenal fans have reacted with mixed emotions, with some blaming Arteta for missing out on a proven Premier League striker, while others support the manager’s decision, believing that the club should not compromise its vision.

Despite this setback, Watkins remains a key figure for Aston Villa, and Unai Emery will likely be relieved to retain his star forward. However, the emotional toll of missing out on a move to Arsenal could linger for Watkins, who may now have to wait for another opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream.

For Arsenal, the failed transfer means Arteta may have to explore other options in the market as they continue their pursuit of attacking reinforcements.