Arsenal are facing an anxious wait over Ben White after the defender was seen walking gingerly towards the tunnel following Wednesday night’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Napoli.
White started at right-back at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona and completed 82 minutes before being replaced by Martin Zubimendi. Arsenal have not indicated that he suffered a serious injury, but his movement after the final whistle prompted concern.
The England international had played a prominent role in Mikel Arteta’s side’s controlled performance in Naples, helping Arsenal begin their European campaign with an important away victory.
Ben White fitness concern emerges after Napoli win
Daily Telegraph reporter Sam Dean, who was present at the stadium, reported that White was walking “very gingerly” as he made his way towards the tunnel after the match.
There was no obvious indication during the game that the defender had sustained a major problem. He remained on the pitch until the closing stages and was involved in the move that produced Martin Ødegaard’s winning goal in the 75th minute.
White exchanged passes with substitute Christos Tzolis before Ødegaard struck a low effort into the corner via the inside of the post. The 28-year-old was then withdrawn seven minutes later, with Zubimendi taking his place.
Napoli’s official match report confirmed the timing of White’s substitution, while UEFA recorded Ødegaard’s goal as the decisive moment of a match Arsenal largely controlled.
For now, the defender’s discomfort could prove to be fatigue or a minor knock rather than a significant injury. However, Arsenal will be keen to establish the extent of the issue quickly given White’s importance to Arteta’s plans.
White’s role extends beyond his defensive work. He regularly moves into midfield during Arsenal’s build-up, combines closely with Bukayo Saka on the right and provides an additional passing option when the team is attempting to break down a deep defence.
That influence was evident in Naples, where he helped Arsenal maintain pressure before Ødegaard finally broke the deadlock. His ability to continue for more than 80 minutes is at least an encouraging sign, although the sight of him walking cautiously after the final whistle will leave the club monitoring his condition closely.
Arsenal have defensive cover in the form of Jurrien Timber and can also deploy other options across the back line, but White remains a trusted choice for major matches. The club will hope Wednesday’s late withdrawal was precautionary ahead of their next fixture.
