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The Arsenal manager delivered bad news for Gooners in Friday’s press conference.
Arsenal defender Ben White is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing knee surgery, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Friday.
The 27-year-old has been dealing with persistent knee problems since the start of the season, forcing him to miss several matches.
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What Arteta said
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“Ben is gonna be out for months, unfortunately,” Arteta stated. “It’s been different kinds of struggles. It’s never been the same thing. We had to make a decision. It’s not been improving in the last few weeks, unfortunately.
“We know that Ben is going to push every boundary but it got to a point where we have to protect the player and we decided to do the surgery. He agreed with that and unfortunately, that’s going to keep him out for a few months.
Arteta expressed uncertainty about the exact duration of White's absence, stating, “I don’t know at the moment,” the Spaniard said. “We have to see how he reacts post-surgery. I don’t expect him to be half a year, but I cannot tell you exactly.”
Arsenal’s right-back options
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White’s injury is a significant blow to Arsenal, disrupting the team's chemistry and tactical plans, particularly down the right flank, where the Englishman plays a crucial role.
Arteta will need to rely on Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey to fill the void at right-back while also managing other injuries within the squad.
The Gunners have faced numerous injury challenges this season, especially at the full-back position.
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Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu have all missed games due to various injuries.
What next for Arsenal?
The upcoming festive schedule will test Arsenal's depth and resilience as they aim to maintain their strong position in the Premier League.
The Gunners return to league action on Saturday when Nottingham Forest visit the Emirates Stadium.
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