Breaking News: Aston Villa Football Club has officially named Ollie Watkins as the new club captain, replacing long-standing skipper John McGinn ahead of the 2025–26 Premier League season.

 Breaking News: Aston Villa Appoint Star Striker Ollie Watkins as New Club Captain

Birmingham, UK – August 15, 2025

Breaking News: Aston Villa Football Club has officially named Ollie Watkins as the new club captain, replacing long-standing skipper John McGinn ahead of the 2025–26 Premier League season.

A New Era of Leadership at Villa Park

The announcement was made earlier today by Villa head coach Unai Emery, who praised Watkins’ “exceptional work ethic, consistency, and growing influence in the dressing room.”

“Ollie has shown, not only through his performances but through his daily professionalism, that he is ready to take on this responsibility. He leads by example,” Emery said during a press conference at Bodymoor Heath.

Watkins, 29, is coming off the best season of his career, finishing the 2024–25 campaign with 19 Premier League goals and 13 assists, securing the Premier League Playmaker of the Season award and helping Villa qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in over four decades.

Watkins Reacts: “An Honour I’ll Never Take Lightly”

Reacting to the news, Watkins said the captaincy is “a dream come true.”

“To wear the armband for a club like Aston Villa – with so much history and ambition – is a huge honour. I’ve learned a lot from John [McGinn], and I’ll give everything to lead this group with pride, humility, and hunger.”

What This Means for John McGinn

John McGinn, who had served as captain since 2022, is expected to remain a key figure in the squad. Club sources say he was “fully supportive” of the decision and has been mentoring Watkins in preparation for a potential leadership role.

“There’s no drama,” a club insider told VillaTV. “John remains a leader on and off the pitch – this move is about evolving the team’s leadership for a new chapter.”

Fan and Pundit Reactions

Fans have taken to social media with mixed reactions – many praising the club’s bold decision, while others express sadness at seeing McGinn step down.

Former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor said on talkSPORT:

“Watkins has earned this. He’s matured into a complete forward and has become the face of the club. This move shows Villa are serious about pushing to the next level.”

What’s Next?

With Watkins now at the helm, Villa enters the new season with high expectations. The club kicks off its Premier League campaign this weekend, and all eyes will be on the new captain as he leads the team out for the first time wearing the armband.

📢 Stay tuned for further updates as Villa’s new captaincy era begins.

Let me know if you want a version tailored for a blog, sports magazine, or social media format.