Arsenal’s preparations for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Everton have been disrupted by another injury concern. Mikel Arteta confirmed that another defender will miss this fixture.
Arteta is already facing fitness issues for many of his defenders. In the past few seasons, injuries killed Arsenal’s title hopes.
Arteta didn’t want that this season. That is why, since Andrea Berta came in, the Gunners have done a fantastic job by signing multiple players for every position.
However, it seems that the injury problem won’t leave Mikel Arteta alone, and the latest name in the list is Ben White.
The defender picked up the issue during last weekend’s 2-1 victory over Wolves. White was forced off after appearing to clutch his hamstring.
This immediately raised fears of a prolonged absence at a time when Arsenal are entering a demanding festive schedule.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta confirmed White will not be available in the short term. However, the boss of the Gunners played down the severity of the problem. He said:
“Yeah he’s out. He’s evolving well, it’s not a major injury but it will keep him out for a few games, I think.”
While losing White is a blow, there was more positive news elsewhere in the squad.
Gabriel Magalhaes is edging closer to a return after missing time since November due to an issue sustained while on international duty with Brazil.
Arteta sounded optimistic about the centre-back’s recovery, saying:
“He’s doing pitch sessions so he’s not too far.”
🚨🗣️ Mikel Arteta: “Ben White is out. He’s evolving well. Not a major injury but it’ll keep him out for a few games.”
“Kai Havertz is progressing well and quite fast. We are really positive if everything continues like that in the next training sessions, he is going to be with… pic.twitter.com/90oQSqIXFW
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) December 19, 2025
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