As Aston Villa prepare for one of their biggest European nights in decades, all eyes will once again be on Ollie Watkins. The England striker is expected to lead the line as Unai Emery’s side attempt to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Nottingham Forest in the Europa League semi-final at Villa Park.
But while Watkins continues to shine on the pitch, those closest to the Aston Villa star know there is another key figure behind his success story — his wife, Ellie.
Villa Chasing History
Aston Villa are just one game away from reaching their first European final in 44 years. However, they face a huge challenge after Chris Wood’s penalty gave Nottingham Forest the advantage in the first leg at the City Ground.
With a place in the Europa League final in Istanbul on the line, Watkins will once again carry the hopes of Villa supporters as Emery’s side look to produce another memorable European comeback.
The Woman Behind the Striker
Supporting Watkins throughout his rise to the top has been his long-time partner and now wife, Ellie. The pair first met during Watkins’ Brentford days after being introduced through mutual friends.
Their relationship quickly blossomed, with Watkins later joking about their early dates and Ellie teasing him over his fashion choices when they first met.
Since then, Ellie has remained a constant presence throughout Watkins’ football journey — from the Championship to the Premier League and now the European stage.
Family Life Changed Everything
The couple now share two children together: daughter Amara May and son Marley.
Watkins has previously admitted fatherhood transformed his mindset both on and off the pitch. Rather than dwelling on difficult performances or pressure moments, he says returning home to his family helps keep him grounded and motivated.
According to the Villa striker, his family gives him the energy and focus needed to perform at the highest level.
A Fairytale Wedding
Last summer, the pair officially tied the knot after Watkins proposed during a romantic trip to Lake Como following Euro 2024.
Their wedding celebrations reportedly took place across multiple luxury venues on the French Riviera, attended by close family and friends in what became one of football’s standout celebrity weddings of the year.
Watkins later admitted he could barely focus during the ceremony because he was overwhelmed seeing Ellie walk down the aisle.
Focused on European Glory
Now, with Aston Villa potentially 90 minutes away from a historic European final, Watkins will once again be looking to deliver on the biggest stage.
And just as she has throughout every step of his career, Ellie is expected to be there supporting him from the stands.
For Villa fans, the hope is simple: that Watkins can produce another unforgettable moment and fire the club one step closer to European glory.
