Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal defender Ben White is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing knee surgery, with reports indicating the injury will keep him out until at least February 2025. The 26-year-old England international has been struggling with recurring knee issues that have forced him to miss several matches in recent weeks.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the severity of White’s condition during a pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s 3-0 Premier League win over Nottingham Forest.
“Ben is going to be out for months,” Arteta said. “It’s been different kinds of struggles—it’s never been the same thing. It’s not been improving, and we had to protect the player. Unfortunately, it’s going to be a few months.”
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The defender has already missed key fixtures against Leicester City, Southampton, Paris Saint-Germain (both legs), and Bolton Wanderers. While initial reports suggested a recovery timeline of up to 12 weeks, theDaily Mail now claims White’s return could be delayed until February 2025 at the earliest.
Ben White injury
Ben White could be out until February 2025 (Image credit: Getty Images)
White has been a crucial player for Arsenal, excelling as a right-back in recent seasons and contributing significantly to the team’s resurgence as Premier League title contenders. Despite his impressive form last season, knee issues have limited his impact this term, with the defender making just nine league appearances so far.
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Arsenal, however, appear well-equipped to handle White’s absence. The summer arrival of Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber returning from his ACL inury, along with the imminent return of Takehiro Tomiyasu from a long-term injury, provide depth in defensive options. Additionally, Kieran Tierney has returned to the squad, making the bench during Arsenal’s 5-1 Champions League victory over Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday.
Injuries have plagued the Gunners this season, with captain Martin Ødegaard only recently returning to action after a brief layoff. Despite these setbacks, Arsenal have regained momentum, breaking a four-game winless streak in the Premier League with a commanding victory over Nottingham Forest before their European triumph.
The Gunners will look to maintain their form as they travel to the London Stadium to face West Ham United on Saturday.
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