Ben White’s England decision refocuses attention on forgotten Arsenal transfer amid summer battle
The England squad has been announced, and one of the less surprising decisions was made outside of Gareth Southgate’s control. Benjamin White has opted to stay with Arsenal this summer, as revealed during the final round of friendlies. Southgate explained that White had blocked a potential call-up.
“Based on form, I can’t say [White] doesn’t deserve to be in,” said Southgate in March. “John McDermott received a call from Edu last week indicating Ben didn’t want to be considered for England squads at this time.
“That’s a great shame, as he’s a player I really like. We took him to the Euros when he was at Brighton and to the World Cup. I spoke to him after Qatar because I wanted to pick him again. There was clearly reluctance from his side, but I don’t fully understand why.”
White has not publicly explained his decision and hasn’t been questioned about it since. He ended the season as Arsenal’s starting right-back, having joined from Brighton as a center-half in 2021.
In the final match of the season against Everton, White was substituted at 1-1 for the returning Jurrien Timber. The Dutch international, who missed most of the season, returned to help secure a late victory over Everton.
“Now that I am fit, I am happy to play wherever,” said Timber. “Just being fit is nice. If the coach wants to use me anywhere, I’ll play.”
Next season, White and Timber could compete for the main right-back spot. Football.london understands that Arsenal is still searching for a left-back this summer, with Timber being an option across the back four. Arteta’s ruthless squad selection means no one is safe.
With Timber not called up for Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands side, Arteta will have ample time to get both White and Timber working together. They can play on both sides of the back four, and White could become an option to rotate with William Saliba, who played every minute of the 2023/24 league season – the first Arsenal player to do so since Lee Dixon.
Having players not participating in summer tournaments benefits the club. The injury risk is significantly reduced, and extra time off can be given to recover from a tough season – a definite positive for the Gunners.