Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta delivered disappointing news to Gunners fans on Friday, confirming that defender Ben White will be out of action for several months following a knee surgery. The 27-year-old full-back, a key component of Arsenal’s backline, started their final match before the international break – a 1-1 draw against Chelsea – completing the full 90 minutes. However, this performance masked an underlying knee problem that ultimately required surgical intervention.
Arteta revealed the details during his pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Nottingham Forest on Saturday. He stated, “Ben White is going to be out for months, unfortunately.” He explained that White had been battling a persistent knee issue, describing it as a series of “different kinds of struggles,” each presenting unique challenges. Despite White’s dedication and willingness to push through the pain, the situation eventually demanded decisive action.
The manager elaborated on the decision-making process, saying, “It hasn’t been improving in the last few weeks. We know Ben is going to push every boundary, but it got to a point where we had to protect the player. We decided to do surgery, he agreed with that, and that’s going to keep him out for a few months.”
While Arteta couldn’t provide a precise timeframe for White’s return, he offered some reassurance. “We have to see how he reacts post-surgery,” he explained. “I don’t expect it to be half a year, but I can’t say exactly how long it will be.” This uncertainty leaves Arsenal facing a significant defensive challenge in the coming months. The club will need to rely on the strength of their remaining squad members to compensate for White’s absence and maintain their impressive Premier League form. The exact nature of the surgery remains undisclosed, but the severity of the injury and the length of the projected recovery period highlight the significant blow to Arsenal’s title ambitions.
The news underscores the physical demands of professional football and the importance of prioritizing player health and well-being. The club and fans alike will be eagerly awaiting updates on White’s progress and hoping for a swift and complete recovery.
