Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expresses his hope that defender Ben White will have the opportunity to represent his country in the future, despite White’s recent decision to opt out of England’s recent fixtures.
White had confirmed before the March internationals that he would not be available for selection for the Three Lions, with reports suggesting a disagreement with assistant manager Steve Holland.
Speaking to the media ahead of Arsenal’s crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City, Arteta commented on White’s choice, highlighting the support the defender has received from teammates and the football community.
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“He has received a lot of love. You just have to see what his teammates and everyone close to him in football says,” Arteta remarked about White. “Hopefully he can represent his country in the best way possible one day. That’s up to him.”
Arteta’s sentiments were echoed by White’s Arsenal teammate Declan Rice, who captained England for the first time against Belgium. Rice described White as a “quality player” and expressed his hope that White would reconsider his decision.
“It’s hard to know really what is going on but he has made his decision and he doesn’t want to play for England at this moment in time,” Rice said. “Playing for England is the greatest honour you could ever have. Hopefully he changes his mind.”
White’s decision to withdraw from England duty surprised many, especially considering his stellar performances for Arsenal, where he has played a pivotal role in their pursuit of the title. With 27 appearances in the Premier League this season, White has contributed two goals and helped Arsenal secure 11 clean sheets, the most in the league.
Arsenal faces Manchester City on Sunday in what promises to be a highly anticipated match of the season.