Arsenal defender Ben White is set for a significant spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery to address a persistent knee issue.
Arsenal’s Ben White Faces Three-Month Absence Following Knee Surgery
The 26-year-old, who has been an instrumental figure in Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup, is expected to be out of action until February at the earliest, according to reports.
The surgery, carried out earlier this month, aims to resolve a problem that has troubled White for some time.
While Arsenal fans will be disappointed by the news, there is hope that the procedure will allow White to regain full fitness and return to his best.
Arteta had hinted at the seriousness of the situation in October, stating that the defender would be out “for months.”
White has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense in recent seasons, contributing to their remarkable record of conceding just 29 goals in the Premier League last year.
His adaptability, playing both as a right-back and a center-back, has made him invaluable to Arteta’s evolving tactics. This season, however, the knee issue has visibly affected his form, with White managing only nine league appearances.
Despite his reduced impact, White’s importance cannot be overstated. His Premier League statistics from last season underline his quality, with four goals, four assists, and consistently solid defensive metrics.
This season, his sole assist – a deft lobbed pass to Bukayo Saka against Liverpool – was a reminder of the skill Arsenal will miss during his recovery.
While his absence leaves a gap in the squad, Arsenal’s defensive depth offers some solace. Recent additions such as Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori provide Arteta with options to manage the blow, though Timber himself is recovering from an ACL injury.
White’s return will depend on the speed and success of his rehabilitation, with sources suggesting a timeline of three months being optimistic.
For now, Arsenal supporters will look forward to seeing their ever-reliable defender back in action as the team continues its pursuit of Premier League glory.
In White’s absence, the Gunners will need to rally, with fans and teammates alike sending their well-wishes for a speedy recovery.
