Arsenal has been dealt a massive blow ahead of the 2026 Champions League final. According to The Athletic, defender Ben White will miss the highly anticipated clash against Paris Saint-Germain due to a severe knee injury.
The 28-year-old was forced off during the Gunners’ recent match against West Ham. Manager Mikel Arteta initially expressed concern, stating that “Ben does not look good at all,” and subsequent medical tests have confirmed the worst: a medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear.
Season Over and World Cup in Doubt
This injury marks an early end to White’s season, with several major implications:
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Club Absence: White will miss Arsenal’s final Premier League fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace, as well as the Champions League final on May 31.
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International Uncertainty: His availability for the 2026 World Cup is now under serious threat. England manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly awaiting further assessments to determine if White can recover in time for the tournament.
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Arteta’s Tactical Headache
With Jurrien Timber also sidelined, Arteta faces a defensive crisis. The Spanish coach is expected to deploy Cristhian Mosquera at right-back temporarily.
Meanwhile, the injury may open the door for Trent Alexander-Arnold to secure a more prominent role in Tuchel’s England squad for the upcoming World Cup in North America.
