Injured Arsenal Star Ben White Returns to Training in Dubai, Boosting Arteta’s Squad

Arsenal have received a major injury boost during their warm-weather training camp in Dubai, as key defender Ben White was spotted back in team training.

The Gunners jetted off to the Middle East on Thursday, just hours after suffering a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Newcastle United in the EFL Cup semi-final second leg, which resulted in a 4-0 aggregate loss.

With no fixture scheduled for the upcoming weekend due to their early FA Cup exit against Manchester United, Arsenal have taken advantage of the break to regroup and prepare for their next challenge. Having secured a direct spot in the Champions League last 16 by finishing third in the league phase, Mikel Arteta’s men won’t be back in action until February 15, when they face Leicester City in the Premier League.

Ben White Back in Training Ahead of Potential Return

Among the squad members traveling to Dubai were White and Bukayo Saka, both recovering from injuries. In a positive development, White was seen training with his teammates on Friday, signaling progress in his rehabilitation.

The 27-year-old defender has been sidelined since November after undergoing knee surgery, which was necessary to address a lingering issue that had affected his performances. Initially, Arteta had hoped for a return by the end of January, but White’s comeback was slightly delayed. However, his presence in training suggests he is now close to full fitness and could make his return to competitive football soon.

With Arsenal set to face Leicester City on February 15, White might aim for a comeback in that fixture. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka (hamstring) and Gabriel Jesus (knee) are still recovering, and there remains uncertainty regarding Takehiro Tomiyasu’s return from his knee injury. Additionally, the Gunners await scan results on Gabriel Martinelli, who picked up a hamstring issue in their recent match against Newcastle.

How White’s Return Could Benefit Arsenal

Ben White has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers under Mikel Arteta, proving to be a reliable presence in both defense and attack. Despite playing through discomfort for months, he continued delivering solid performances before eventually undergoing surgery.

His return would be a significant boost for Arteta, especially considering the club’s current lack of depth at right-back. With Jurrien Timber still finding his rhythm after an ACL injury, White’s availability would provide much-needed stability.

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At times, Thomas Partey has been used as a makeshift right-back, but his performances in that role have been far from convincing. Having White back in contention would allow Arteta to revert to his preferred defensive setup, strengthening Arsenal’s backline and improving their attacking transitions down the right flank.

As the Gunners prepare for the crucial months ahead, White’s return could be a game-changer, adding defensive resilience and attacking fluidity to the squad. Arsenal fans will be eagerly anticipating his potential comeback against Leicester, hoping he can help propel the team forward in their pursuit of silverware this season.