Arsenal could have another defensive problem on their hands after Ben White appeared to suffer discomfort during their 1-0 Champions League victory over Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Thursday.
According to the London Evening Standard, White started at right-back and remained on the pitch until the 82nd minute. However, as the game entered its closing stages, the defender appeared to be struggling and was eventually replaced by Martin Zubimendi.
The substitution led to further changes in Arsenal’s defensive setup. Zubimendi moved into the back line, while Declan Rice shifted across to the right-back position. The situation highlighted the limited defensive options currently available to Mikel Arteta.
White was also seen walking cautiously after the final whistle, although Arsenal have not yet confirmed whether he suffered a new injury. His condition and availability for the club’s next fixtures therefore remain uncertain.
Arsenal’s Defensive Problems Continue
The concern comes at an unfortunate time for Arsenal, who are already dealing with several defensive absences.
William Saliba is recovering from a back problem, Cristhian Mosquera is out with a muscle strain, and Jurrien Timber continues to be carefully managed following groin surgery.
White’s fitness is especially important given his role in the team. The England international has played every minute of Arsenal’s Premier League campaign so far, making him one of Arteta’s most reliable defensive options.
If he is forced to miss any matches, the manager may have to make further adjustments to an already stretched back line.
Odegaard Secures Napoli Victory
Despite the late concern over White, Arsenal left Naples with an important victory.
Martin Odegaard scored with 15 minutes remaining to give the visitors a 1-0 win. Arsenal had created several chances throughout the match and continued to pose a threat in attack.
Arteta praised his players for their intensity, quality, purpose and attacking mentality from the opening whistle. He also felt the final score did not fully reflect Arsenal’s performance, suggesting that better finishing could have produced a more comfortable victory.
The manager described the display in Naples as remarkable.
Arsenal’s Next Fixtures
Arsenal will now turn their attention to a busy run of domestic fixtures.
The Gunners travel to face Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday, before taking on Ipswich in the EFL Cup three days later. They will then return to league action against Brighton on September 19.
For now, White’s situation remains a concern rather than a confirmed injury absence. But with Arsenal already short of defensive options, even a minor setback could create another difficult selection decision for Arteta.
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