Ben White has quietly become one of Arsenal’s most consistent and adaptable players. He is rarely in the spotlight but almost always trusted when fit. In a system built on control, intelligence and flexibility, White offers all three. His 2024–25 season was not without its challenges, but he remains a reliable presence on the right side of Mikel Arteta’s evolving structure.
Season Review
White started the campaign in familiar fashion, operating on the right of a defence that plays as a back four out of possession and shifts into a three when building attacks. He made 17 Premier League appearances and 26 in all competitions, though a lingering knee issue kept him out of the side for a large stretch in the middle of the season. That absence was noticeable. Without him, the right side of Arsenal’s build-up lost a bit of rhythm and structure.
When he returned, he slotted back in with little fuss. His connection with Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard remains one of the cleanest triangles in the league. His overlapping runs, awareness of space and sharp passing helped Arsenal break down compact blocks, especially at home. Defensively, he was as solid as ever, rarely beaten in one-on-one situations and constantly covering for others with intelligent positioning.
Still, it was a season interrupted. And with other options emerging in the squad, his automatic starting status began to feel a little less guaranteed.
Tactical Fit
Ben White’s best asset is his tactical flexibility. Arteta values players who can shift roles within matches and White fits that mould perfectly. Out of possession, he plays as a traditional right-back. In possession, he often steps into midfield or forms a temporary back three, depending on who else is on the pitch. This fluidity allows Arsenal to overload central areas and control transitions.
He is not the most explosive player in the final third, but his timing on overlaps and ability to read when to go forward are crucial to freeing up Saka. He rarely over-commits and always stays switched on defensively. That discipline allows Ødegaard to operate higher up without needing to drop back and help defensively.
White also helps maintain Arsenal’s tempo. His passing is crisp and safe but not conservative. He switches play with ease and is comfortable under pressure when pressed by aggressive teams. That calmness on the ball is vital when Arsenal look to play out from the back.
Long-Term Considerations
While White is clearly an important part of the current squad, there is a growing sense that he is not completely untouchable. At 27 years old and under contract, he still holds strong market value. If a substantial offer came in from another top club, particularly one looking to add a technical defender with Premier League experience, Arsenal might be tempted to listen.
That is not to say they are looking to move him on. But with Jurrien Timber returning from injury, Takehiro Tomiyasu showing versatility, and younger options coming through the academy pipeline, the right-back position is not as thin as it once was. If the club is looking to balance its books or fund a bigger move in midfield or attack, parting ways with a player like White could make financial sense.
His attitude and professionalism make him a low-risk prospect, and that also makes him attractive to other clubs. If Arsenal do move on from him, it would be from a position of strength, knowing that they have internal options to reshape the structure without losing tactical coherence.
Final Word
Ben White does not dominate headlines or rack up goal contributions, but his value to Arsenal’s system is clear. He brings balance to the right flank, helps knit the buildup together and offers defensive security in matches where fine margins matter. His absence this season was felt more than fans expected. That alone speaks to his importance.
But football moves fast. With more options coming in and tactical demands shifting slightly, White’s long-term place in the side is less locked-in than it was a year ago. He remains a dependable contributor, and for now, Arteta clearly trusts him. But if the right offer were to land on the table, Arsenal might decide it is time to evolve.
Importance to Arsenal’s Future Goals: 6.5 out of 10
White is reliable, intelligent and proven. But he is also one of the few experienced players whose role could be filled internally if needed. His time at Arsenal may not be forever, but while he is here, he remains an asset.