With competition intensifying in Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal squad, questions are mounting over Ben White’s role at the Emirates. Club legend Alan Smith has voiced concern that the England international may soon weigh up his options amid limited game time this season. With January fast approaching, White’s future in North London is suddenly far from certain.
Ben White Struggling for Minutes in Competitive Arsenal Squad
Ben White has found himself on the fringes of Arsenal’s starting lineup this season, making only three starts across all competitions — and just one in the Premier League. The 26-year-old, once a regular under Mikel Arteta, now finds his spot under threat due to the rise of summer signing Jurrien Timber.
Although White’s versatility allows him to slot in at both right-back and centre-back, his recurring injury problems and Timber’s strong form have pushed him down the pecking order. As a result, Arteta faces a delicate balancing act to manage squad depth without alienating key players.
Alan Smith: White Could Seek a Move if Situation Doesn’t Change
Former Arsenal striker and club icon Alan Smith has warned that Ben White may consider requesting a transfer if his situation doesn’t improve. Speaking to Best Betting Sites, Smith noted that even in successful teams, it’s difficult to keep all players satisfied — particularly those who feel sidelined.
“When you have a deep and talented squad like Arsenal’s, someone is always left disappointed,” Smith said. “It depends on Ben — he might want more minutes, especially with the Euros coming up. But he’s also part of a club that’s on the rise.”
Smith added that White’s strong partnership with Bukayo Saka on the right flank could work in his favour, but so far, Timber has been preferred. That, coupled with White’s injury history, may force him to reconsider his role within the team.
Gyokeres Faces Pressure as Havertz Emerges as a Striking Option
Smith also weighed in on Arsenal’s attacking options, highlighting Viktor Gyokeres’ slow start at the club. The Swedish striker has struggled to hit the ground running, prompting Arteta to explore alternative setups — including playing Kai Havertz as a central striker in certain matchups.
“Havertz gives Arsenal a different kind of threat,” Smith explained. “He’s technically gifted and offers something unique that Gyokeres doesn’t. I think we’ll see Arteta rotate based on the opposition.”
Despite the early struggles, Smith remains optimistic about Gyokeres’ long-term impact. Describing the forward as strong, quick, and direct, he believes the 25-year-old can still carve out a vital role — even if his style deviates from Arsenal’s traditional frontmen.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With the January transfer window drawing near, Arteta may face tough decisions to retain harmony within his squad. Whether Ben White decides to stay and fight for his place or seeks a new challenge could depend on his game time in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, up front, the battle between Gyokeres and Havertz adds another intriguing subplot to Arsenal’s evolving season.
