Arsenal, chasing their first Premier League title in 22 years and a maiden Champions League crown, have been dealt a major blow. England international defender Ben White, 28, has suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury, according to the club.
The incident occurred during the 1-0 win over West Ham on May 10, when White collided with an opponent and had to be substituted in the 28th minute. The Gunners confirmed on their official website that White will miss the remainder of the season, but they are hopeful he can return for pre-season training.
British broadcaster BBC reported that White is also likely to miss the upcoming World Cup in North and Central America, which kicks off in June. “It’s such a cruel timing,” the outlet noted, highlighting that White had only recently returned to the England squad in March after a three-year absence, scoring an equalizer against Uruguay in a friendly.
The report added: “Missing the final stretch of a season that could end historically for the Gunners is a huge personal blow. White delivered an outstanding performance in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, and his link-up with Bukayo Saka on the right flank was particularly impressive.”
Arsenal currently sit top of the Premier League table, needing wins against Burnley and Crystal Palace to secure the title. They also face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, aiming for their first European Cup triumph in 20 years.