Arsenal defender Ben White is facing mounting scrutiny after a series of concerning performances that have exposed significant vulnerabilities in his game. The England international, once considered a rock at the back for the Gunners, appears to be struggling with both form and confidence at a crucial stage of the season.
Defensive Vulnerabilities Laid Bare
Recent matches have highlighted worrying trends in White's defensive capabilities. The 26-year-old has been repeatedly targeted by opposition attackers, with his positioning and one-on-one defending coming under particular criticism. Statistics show a notable decline in his tackle success rate and aerial duels won compared to previous campaigns.
Former Arsenal legend Martin Keown expressed concern, stating: "When you see a player of Ben's quality struggling this visibly, it suggests deeper issues that need addressing. The confidence seems to have drained from his game."
Arteta's Selection Dilemma Intensifies
Manager Mikel Arteta now faces a significant headache ahead of crucial Premier League and European fixtures. With Takehiro Tomiyasu waiting in the wings and William Saliba establishing himself as the first-choice centre-back, White's place in the starting eleven appears increasingly under threat.
"Arteta has shown he's not afraid to make tough decisions," noted football pundit Gary Neville. "If White's form doesn't improve quickly, he could find himself on the bench sooner rather than later."
England Prospects Hang in the Balance
The timing of White's dip in form couldn't be worse, with European Championship qualification reaching its critical phase. Gareth Southgate has previously shown faith in the versatile defender, but with competition for places fierce in the England setup, continued struggles could see White slip down the pecking order.
Southgate will be monitoring the situation closely, knowing that consistent club performance remains the primary criterion for international selection.
What's Gone Wrong for the Former Brighton Star?
Several factors may be contributing to White's current struggles:
- System adaptation: Arteta's tactical tweaks this season may not be playing to White's strengths
- Increased pressure: Heightened expectations following Arsenal's title challenge last season
- Fatigue concerns: The relentless schedule taking its toll on performance levels
- Opposition analysis: Teams identifying and exploiting specific weaknesses in his game
Arsenal's coaching staff will be working intensively with White to address these issues, but with matches coming thick and fast, time is of the essence for the embattled defender.
