Arsenal's most versatile defender — deployed as both centre-back and right-back with equal excellence.
Ben White was born in Poole, England in 1997. Brighton's system developed him — including loan spells at Newport County, Peterborough, Leeds and Brighton — before Arsenal paid £50 million for him in 2021. His three Arsenal seasons have produced consistent excellence in multiple defensive positions — primarily right-back in Arteta's system but also centre-back when required. His ball-playing quality from defensive positions — his dribbling out from the back and his distribution range — has been central to Arsenal's build-up system. He withdrew from England's Euro 2020 squad during the tournament citing mental health reasons — one of the highest-profile decisions to prioritise mental health over tournament participation in English football. He was called up to England's 2022 World Cup squad. His combination of technical ability and positional flexibility has made him one of the Premier League's most valued defenders across Arsenal's title challenges.
Versatile defender who can play centre-back or right-back, known for his pace, distribution and ability to step into midfield
How They Played
Modern ball-playing defender with excellent pace, comfortable in possession, strong aerial ability and versatility across defensive positions
Lasting Impact
Rising English defender who established himself as a key player for both club and country
Premier League runner-up 2x
Career Honours
- Premier League runner-up 2x
- FA Cup (2020 squad)