Arsenal have been dealt another injury setback as their versatile defender Ben White recently underwent minor knee surgery.
According to report, White’s surgery could result in him missing multiple matches, though the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain and will hinge on the success of the procedure.
At present, there are concerns that the 27-year-old defender might be sidelined for several weeks, a blow that comes as the Gunners prepare for a challenging post-international break schedule.
Potentially Prolonged Absence
The timing of White’s surgery highlights the careful approach Arsenal is taking with his recovery, given the defender’s ongoing knee issues in recent weeks.
Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta revealed earlier in November that White had been dealing with a “little issue,” which had forced the coaching staff to manage his playing time cautiously.
This issue had already limited White’s involvement in crucial matches, as he was unavailable for the starting lineup in the fixtures against Manchester City and Newcastle United, and missed the high-profile Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain entirely in October.
Given his form and adaptability, White’s absence could be particularly felt. Known for his capability to switch between right-back and center-back roles seamlessly, White has been an essential piece in Arsenal’s defensive setup.
His absence, combined with other injury issues, could force Arteta to explore tactical adjustments and rely on alternative defensive options.
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Arsenal’s Packed Schedule
Arsenal’s return from the international break is packed with high-stakes encounters, beginning with a home match against Nottingham Forest on November 23.
This is swiftly followed by a Champions League clash against Sporting CP in midweek and a crucial Premier League face-off against West Ham United.
White’s unavailability could significantly impact the squad rotation and defensive stability Arteta needs during this busy period, especially considering Arsenal’s goals of domestic and European success this season.
Arsenal’s Growing Injury Concerns
Ben White’s knee surgery adds to a growing injury list at Arsenal, a situation that has already been a point of frustration for Arteta.
Following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea last Sunday, Arteta expressed hope to avoid additional injury setbacks, as injuries have hampered squad consistency this season.
Key players, including club captain Martin Ødegaard, Mikel Merino, and summer signing Jurriën Timber, have all endured periods of absence, forcing Arteta to juggle his lineup throughout the campaign.
The backline is particularly stretched thin.
Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Kieran Tierney are also currently sidelined, further restricting Arteta’s defensive options.
The added absence of White puts further strain on Arsenal’s defense, potentially leaving Gabriel and William Saliba to shoulder even more responsibility.
How Arsenal Plans to Cope
White’s decision not to make himself available for international duty during this break was likely influenced by his desire to address the injury without the added workload of representing England.
This respite from competitive matches gave Arsenal an opportunity to address White’s knee issue head-on, though it remains to be seen how effectively they will cope in his absence.
With the increasing injury toll, Arteta may turn to young defenders from the academy to provide depth, or alternatively, lean more on tactical adjustments to fill the void.
The team’s squad depth will be tested as they look to maintain their Premier League form while balancing European commitments.
Arsenal’s Hopes for a Strong Recovery
The Gunners are undoubtedly hoping that White’s recovery goes smoothly and he can return to full fitness soon.
As a defensive linchpin, White’s presence has been integral to Arsenal’s defensive solidity, and his experience is essential as they look to compete on multiple fronts.
