Captain Martin Odegaard Set to Receive Key Support, Ben White might not fit the mold of a traditional full-back for Arsenal. Unlike most in his position, he isn’t known for whipping in crosses, delivering pinpoint passes from deep, or creating in the way modern wide players do.
As a converted center-back, White’s role is more functional than flashy. Last season, he surprisingly matched Gabriel Martinelli’s assist tally and was only two goals short of the Brazilian’s total—yet his contributions often go unnoticed.
Rather than being an attacking powerhouse, White is a tactical asset for Mikel Arteta. His positioning ensures Arsenal remains defensively solid while providing a reliable passing option for his teammates.
This is why, despite lacking flamboyant skills, White is crucial to one of Arsenal’s most effective strategies—their right-sided attacking triangle.
While Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka rightfully grab the headlines, White’s intelligent positioning has been instrumental in enabling their attacking combinations. His movements create space and structure, allowing Arsenal’s right flank to flourish.
Without White, things haven’t quite clicked in the same way for Arteta’s side. Though Arsenal has maintained a strong record in his absence—winning 11 out of 15 league matches without him and remaining unbeaten in those games—there have been moments of inconsistency.
A lack of overall fluidity has been apparent this season. Odegaard’s injury struggles and gradual return to full fitness have contributed to this, and when he did return, he was missing the familiar support of White. Meanwhile, Takehiro Tomiyasu, a more aggressive full-back option, has also been sidelined.
Jurrien Timber has filled in admirably but lacks White’s forward-thinking chemistry with Arsenal’s attacking players. And with Saka also out due to surgery, Arteta has faced difficult selection dilemmas, further complicated by Ethan Nwaneri’s injury setback.
The positive news for Arsenal is that White is nearing his return. Arteta recently hinted that following a scheduled break, White could be available again. Before Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg loss to Newcastle, he provided an update: “No news from the game against City, and Ben is still out. Hopefully, after the break, he will be available.”
White was spotted training in Dubai during the team’s warm-weather camp, and with a free midweek to prepare before Arsenal’s trip to Leicester City, his comeback is imminent.
Once White is back in the squad, it won’t just be a defensive boost—it could transform the right side of Arsenal’s attack. His deep understanding of Arteta’s tactical setup makes him a crucial piece of the puzzle, particularly in supporting Odegaard and whoever plays on the right wing.
With the Champions League returning in March and Arsenal aiming to reintegrate key players before the season’s climax, White’s return couldn’t be more timely. His presence may unlock Odegaard’s full potential, ensuring Arsenal finds its rhythm at a critical moment.
If Nwaneri can return without additional pressure, it will only add to Arsenal’s stability. White, despite being a full-back who prioritizes defense over attack, might just be the missing link Arteta needs to refine his side’s balance and effectiveness.
