Key Takeaways:
- Ben White sustained a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Wolves on Saturday and is expected to be absent for four to five weeks
- Mikel Arteta’s defensive options remain limited, with Cristhian Mosquera, Gabriel Magalhaes, Kai Havertz, and Max Dowman also sidelined
- Arsenal are set to face Everton on Saturday as they aim to maintain their two-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League
Injury Crisis Intensifies for Arsenal Defence
Arsenal have been handed a significant blow with confirmation that defender Ben White will miss at least a month owing to a hamstring problem. The 28-year-old right-back was forced off during the first half of Saturday’s 2-1 win against Wolves, being replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly just after the 30-minute mark. White underwent a scan on Sunday, and the outcome indicates he will be sidelined for approximately four or five weeks.
🚨BREAKING @CharlieWyett:
Arsenal defender Ben White will be sidelined for AT LEAST a month with a hamstring injury. 🏥🏴
White underwent a scan on Sunday and he looks set to be sidelined for around four or five weeks. 🤕❌ #AFC pic.twitter.com/qbSAmuS1dP
— David (@DTalkingArsenal) December 15, 2025
This development adds to manager Mikel Arteta’s defensive woes, as he continues to navigate a growing injury list. Cristhian Mosquera remains unavailable until next month due to an ankle concern, while Gabriel Magalhaes is still working towards a return after suffering a thigh injury. Versatile defender Jurrien Timber is expected to occupy the right-back role against Everton on Saturday, while left-back Riccardo Calafiori returns to contention following a recent suspension.
Squad Depth Tested Ahead of Everton Clash
The absences are compounded by the injuries to Kai Havertz and Max Dowman, further restricting Arteta’s selection choices. White’s latest setback comes after an earlier hamstring injury sustained at the start of the campaign and a significant knee injury that sidelined him for much of last season. Before this recent spell, White had endured a run of 10 consecutive Premier League matches as an unused substitute, making his return earlier this month in the fixture against Brentford.
Despite these challenges, White had featured in Arsenal’s last three league matches in addition to the Champions League victory at Club Brugge last week, bringing his total appearances to 11 this season.
| Player | Injury | Estimated Return |
|---|---|---|
| Ben White | Hamstring | Four to five weeks |
| Cristhian Mosquera | Ankle | Next month |
| Gabriel Magalhaes | Thigh | Unknown |
| Kai Havertz | Undisclosed | Unknown |
| Max Dowman | Undisclosed | Unknown |
Race to Remain League Leaders
Arsenal will look to maintain their position at the Premier League summit when they meet Everton at the weekend. Arteta’s side currently hold a two-point advantage over Manchester City. Ensuring a win on Saturday will be vital in their quest to be top of the table at Christmas, despite the increasing challenges posed by a stretched squad.
