Arsenal’s Ben White Sidelined: Hamstring Injury Sparks Defensive Crisis

Arsenal defender Ben White faces a significant spell on the sidelines. The versatile player suffered a hamstring injury against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Initial tests suggest he could be out until at least mid-January.

This setback deals a major blow to Mikel Arteta’s plans. The manager confirmed the issue after the match. According to BBC Sport, the club now fears a minimum one-month absence for the 28-year-old.

A Packed Fixture List Awaits a Shorthanded Squad

White’s potential timeline covers a brutal run of games. He could miss seven or eight crucial matches. Arsenal competes in three different competitions during this period.

The schedule includes key Premier League clashes. Games against Liverpool and Aston Villa are on the horizon. There is also a Carabao Cup quarterfinal and an FA Cup tie.

This leaves Arteta with severe defensive shortages. Key players like Gabriel and Cristhian Mosquera are also injured. The manager’s options at the back are now critically thin.

Arteta’s Defensive Puzzle Becomes a Nightmare

The injury throws Arsenal back into a familiar crisis. Defensive stability had just started to return. William Saliba’s recent comeback was a positive step.

Now, Arteta must find new solutions. Ben White’s versatility was a huge asset. He could play at right-back or fill in centrally when needed.

His absence forces unexpected changes. Youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly may see more minutes. The coming weeks will test the squad’s depth and resilience.

This extended Ben White injury absence comes at the worst possible time for Arsenal. The team’s title aspirations now face a stern defensive test. Arteta must find answers quickly during the busy festive period.

Info at your fingertips

How long is Ben White expected to be out?

Arsenal fears the defender will be sidelined for a minimum of one month. A best-case scenario would see him return around mid-January after missing multiple fixtures.

What injury does Ben White have?

White sustained a hamstring problem. He was forced off in the first half of Arsenal’s match against Wolves, requiring immediate substitution.

Which games will Ben White likely miss?

He is set to miss up to eight games. This includes Premier League matches against Liverpool and Villa, plus Carabao Cup and FA Cup ties in a packed schedule.

Who will replace Ben White in the lineup?

Mikel Arteta has limited ready-made options. Riccardo Calafiori returns from suspension, but young backup Myles Lewis-Skelly may be called upon for defensive depth.

Are other Arsenal defenders injured?

Yes. Gabriel and Cristhian Mosquera are also out with injuries. This compounds the defensive crisis and leaves the squad extremely thin at the back.