Arsenal Football Club made headlines on Thursday, March 14, 2024, by announcing the long-term contract extension of England national team defender, Ben White. White, a pivotal figure in Arsenal's defensive lineup since his arrival from Brighton in 2021, has solidified his position as a key player under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta.
Ben White's Profile:
According to Transfermarkt, Ben White's contract with Arsenal has been extended until June 30, 2026. Hailing from Poole, England, Benjamin William White was born on October 8, 1997. He began his junior career in the Southampton academy.
White's journey to prominence wasn't without its challenges. Despite his talent, he went unnoticed by major clubs during his teenage years and was released by Southampton at the age of 16. However, Brighton & Hove Albion welcomed him into their ranks in 2014.
During his time at Brighton, White gained valuable experience on loan spells with Newport County and Peterborough before catching the eye of Leeds United. In the early stages of the 2019-2020 season, Leeds secured White on loan from Brighton. Initially intended for the U-21 squad, White's exceptional performances earned him a place in the senior team under manager Marcelo Bielsa. He quickly established himself as a rising star in English football.
With Leeds, White made 46 appearances out of 49 games, contributing significantly to their promotion to the Premier League as champions of the Championship. His standout performances earned him the Championship Player of the Month award in August 2019.
In July 2020, Brighton rewarded White with a new four-year contract. He made his Premier League debut in the opening match of the 2020-2021 season. During his time with Brighton, White made 41 appearances across all competitions and was recognized as the club's Player of the Season.
According to Arsenal's official website, White joined The Gunners as a central defender in 2021. In his debut season, he registered five assists and two goals in the Premier League. Since joining Arsenal, White has featured in 122 matches across all competitions.
White's impressive performances have also earned him a place in the England national team. He made his debut against Austria on June 2, 2021, and was included in the squad for Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, further solidifying his status as one of England's top defenders.
Conclusion:
Ben White's contract extension with Arsenal marks a significant moment in his career, highlighting his importance to the club's defensive setup. With his talent, versatility, and international experience, White is poised to continue making a significant impact for both Arsenal and the England national team in the years to come.