Ben White Injury Deepens Arsenal Crisis as Arteta Suffers Another Setback

Ben White left the pitch with an injury against Wolves as Arsenal growing defensive crisis worsened during the Premier League title race.

Arsenal suffered another setback when Ben White exited due to injury during their Premier League match against Wolves at the Emirates Stadium.

The 28-year-old right-back pulled up just 30 minutes into the contest, and Myles Lewis-Skelly replaced him immediately, raising concern among supporters.

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White had only recently returned to full fitness following a six-month injury absence, making the setback even more cruel for both player and club.

His recent performances had stabilised Arsenal’s defence, and his return had been viewed internally as a major boost during a congested run of fixtures.

Arteta Praised White’s Importance

Before the injury, Mikel Arteta had spoken glowingly about White’s influence, describing him as a “tremendous player” whose attitude and quality elevate the entire team.

White’s ability to stretch the pitch, link with Bukayo Saka, and offer calmness in build-up play had made Arsenal “a different machine” when he featured on the right side.

White’s injury adds to a mounting list of absentees that has plagued Arsenal throughout the campaign.

Defensive regulars Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Magalhães, William Saliba, and even Declan Rice have all faced fitness issues at various points, forcing constant reshuffles.

Arteta previously warned about a “really dangerous circle” of injuries, acknowledging the physical toll placed on players during this phase of the season.

Workload Raises Fresh Questions

Concerns have emerged around White’s workload since his return, with the defender playing five matches in just 14 days prior to the Wolves fixture.

That heavy schedule may have contributed to muscle fatigue, increasing vulnerability despite the club’s attempts to manage minutes carefully.

White’s absence leaves Arsenal short on the right side, potentially forcing Arteta to rely more heavily on Lewis-Skelly or consider moving Jurrien Timber back into the role once fit.

With players frequently operating outside their natural positions, squad depth and rotation decisions will now face greater scrutiny.

With major fixtures approaching and the Premier League title race tightening, this latest blow threatens to derail Arsenal’s momentum.

Arteta must now navigate another difficult period while maintaining belief and stability within a stretched squad. For Arsenal, keeping defensive structure intact may prove decisive in keeping their ambitions alive.

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