The 'nightmare' for Arsenal has returned

The win against Wolverhampton Wanderers appeared to promise full happiness for Arsenal, yet it actually raised significant worries for manager Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal supporters.

English center-back and right-back Ben White was forced to leave the field in the first half, complicating Arsenal's defensive lineup during this crucial stage of the season.

According to coach Mikel Arteta's confirmation after the match, Ben White’s injury status is not optimistic. The 1997-born player had a hamstring issue at the 31st minute, clutching his leg in pain and signaling to be substituted. This image caused great concern for Arsenal’s coaching staff because White had only recently returned to the starting lineup after a long injury rehabilitation period.

In fact, Arsenal’s defense is currently facing a real injury crisis. Before Ben White, key players like Gabriel Magalhaes and Cristhian Mosquera were already sidelined. The continuous loss of important members forces Arteta to rotate his squad amid a congested schedule in the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cup competitions.

Ben White’s recent comeback was seen as an important morale boost for Arsenal. Although Jurrien Timber had secured the right-back spot, White brought stability and valuable experience, especially in high-pressure matches. Therefore, his injury relapse before regaining full form is a heavy blow to the Gunners’ ambitions.

In the match against Wolves, Arsenal showed resilience by securing the win thanks to two own goals from the opponent. However, that joy was overshadowed by the sight of Ben White leaving the pitch early, casting a long shadow of concern for the future. Young player Myles Lewis-Skelly was brought on as a substitute and fulfilled his role, but clearly, his experience cannot yet match White’s.

In this context, Arsenal received some positive news as Riccardo Calafiori is set to return from suspension. The Italian defender’s comeback somewhat eases Arteta’s personnel pressure, especially ahead of the upcoming away game at Everton this weekend.

If Ben White faces a long-term absence, it is likely that Jurrien Timber will continue to be deployed as right-back in the December 20 match at Hill Dickinson Stadium against Everton. This will be a tough challenge, as Everton is always a difficult opponent, particularly at home.

Ben White’s injury once again rings alarm bells about Arsenal’s squad depth. In the fierce Premier League race and the ambition to advance far in the Champions League, maintaining a stable squad will be crucial. At this moment, Gunners fans can only hope that medical tests will bring better news for Ben White and coach Arteta in the coming days.