Aston Villa’s push for a first Premier League title in over four decades suffered a worrying setback on Thursday night as Ollie Watkins was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury during a Europa League victory over RB Salzburg.
The England striker limped out of the first half at Villa Park after pulling up while chasing a through ball, casting a shadow over a 3–2 comeback win that should have been routine in a match with little at stake.
Watkins initially tried to shake off the problem but was visibly uncomfortable before eventually signalling to the bench. Morgan Rogers replaced him as concern rippled through the stadium, with Villa supporters immediately aware of the wider implications beyond Europe.
The timing could hardly be worse. Villa sit third in the Premier League, level on points with Manchester City and four behind leaders Arsenal, firmly in the title conversation deep into the season. Watkins has been central to that rise, providing goals, movement, and leadership at the top of Emery’s system.
Unai Emery attempted to ease fears after the match but admitted his striker is a doubt for the weekend. The medical assessment now becomes pivotal as Villa prepare for a defining run of domestic fixtures.
The mood inside Villa Park reflected the unusual context of the night. Qualification for the Europa League knockout stages had already been secured, and the tie against Salzburg carried no bearing on Villa’s progress. That reality made Watkins’ inclusion from the start a talking point even before the injury.
Villa began sluggishly and were punished early. A lapse from Tyrone Mings allowed Salzburg to take the lead, and the visitors soon doubled their advantage as Villa struggled to find rhythm. The atmosphere grew tense as frustration replaced the relaxed tone of kick-off.
The hosts responded with urgency, driven by midfield pressure and more direct attacking play. Rogers added energy after his introduction, while wide players began stretching Salzburg’s back line, forcing the visitors deeper.
Clear chances followed. Villa pulled a goal back to restore belief before sustained pressure finally told. The equaliser arrived after a spell of dominance that pinned Salzburg inside their own half and reignited the crowd.
The decisive moment came late and carried a sense of occasion. Teenage prospect Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba seized his chance, firing home a dramatic winner to complete the turnaround and seal a 3–2 victory.
The second half was played with intensity rather than comfort. Villa controlled territory but remained vulnerable on the break, while Emery adjusted shape to protect his defence and keep momentum on his side.
As the final minutes ticked away, the focus drifted from the scoreline to the tunnel. The sight of Watkins receiving treatment lingered far longer than the celebration of the winning goal.
The result keeps Villa winning and confident on the pitch, but the true impact of the night will be decided away from it. If Watkins faces time on the sidelines, Emery’s title challenge could hinge on how quickly his squad adapts to life without its most important attacker.
