The Three Lions revealed the latest national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. There was one name that did not make the list for the national team in the summer fixtures. The player was the Gunners defender Ben White. Playing an important role in the Gunner’s defense. With making major contributions to Mikel Arteta’s defensive line. Leading to good performance for the Gunners in the domestic league. His exclusion from the list raised a few questions among many fans and experts. As they have already expected him to be a sure pick in the squad. But England boss Thomas Tuchel has cited the reason that due to based on decision personal reasons and fitness issues. A combination of both issues has led to his absence from the squad. As the three lions are set to play their World Cup qualifier games for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ben White presence in the defense of Arsenal:
White has become one of the main players in the defense for the Gunners since joining from Brighton in 2021. Playing mainly as a right back in the system of Arteta gameplay. But with recent injury problems, he has also missed a lot of games for the Gunners. Due to a knee injury this season. As a result this season of 2024-25 he has only played a total of 35 matches in all competitions for the Gunners. Where the Gunners were only able the get the second position in the Premier League. But has been back from injury and has shown good performance. As a regular face in the national camp but he was left out this time. But White gameplay makes him suitable for a perfect wingback as he can very well defend and is capable of passing and running into the midfield.
Personal and injury reasons for the absence of Ben White:
In the press conference of the squad announcement ahead of the fixtures. Tuchel addressed the absence of Ben White directly. He stated that the player is also expecting the birth of his child. As the due date is falling in the time of the international camp. He said that they already had a talk between themselves. So it was not the correct time for the player to be with the team. Wishing his family the best for the new member of their family. This was given as the main reason for his absence from the national duties. Alongside the recovery from the injuries. The player has recently come back to the top level from knee surgery in November 2024. Ruling him out for more than 3 months of game time. Suggesting that he is still not ready for full physical fitness.
A balanced call amid high expectations:
Ben White’s omission from the Three Lions squad when his value at the Gunners has never been higher. The defender can take on the roles of multiple positions either as a center-back or as a right-back. That can be a major asset for any team he plays for which has helped Arteta in the past season. Despite injuries, he has made a strong comeback this season. But national team duties have come at a time of personal decisions. Nonetheless, White inclusion in the team seems only a matter of time.
Author’s opinion:
At first, the absence of Ben White from the list raised many questions from fans. But the personal reasons alongside the recovery from full fitness is a big issue. Tuchel decision to omit him due to the birth of his child is also getting the respect. The family of the player is also important that affects the player’s mental health. Choosing to give space for White for such an important event is well respected decision.
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