Mikel Arteta Optimistic about Arsenal’s Ben White Ending England Boycott
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is hopeful that defender Ben White will end his protest against being called up to the England national team. Gareth Southgate, the manager of the Three Lions, recently revealed that Arsenal’s technical director, Edu, had informed him that White did not want to be selected for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. It is rumored that White had a falling out with Southgate’s assistant, Steve Holland, during the Qatar World Cup in November 2022, which led to his early return from the tournament. However, Southgate has denied these claims and expressed that the door is still open for White to return.
During the international break, White took a holiday in Dubai but is expected to start in Arsenal’s match against Manchester City on Sunday. When asked about the possibility of White returning to the England set-up in the future, Arteta stated that it would ultimately be the player’s decision. He emphasized that as his manager, he wants what is best for White both personally and professionally. Arteta believes that if White does decide to return to the national team, it would be the best option for everyone involved. He also highlighted the support and love White has received from his teammates and the football community.
White made his senior international debut for England in 2021 at the age of 23 in a 1-0 victory over Austria. He currently has four England caps and was part of the national squads for UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, his exclusion from the England squad began in November 2022 when he left the World Cup due to personal reasons. At that time, it was not expected for him to return. Southgate later revealed that White had informed England that he did not want to be considered for selection. Despite this, Southgate maintained that White would still be welcome in the squad if he decides to come back. He stated that his focus is on players who can help the team.
The controversy surrounding White’s absence from the England set-up started with a “barbed comment” from assistant coach Steve Holland during the World Cup. This comment was made in front of other members of the England squad, leading to tensions between White and the coaching staff. However, Southgate has denied any personal issues between himself, Holland, and White.
While the situation remains unresolved, Arteta remains optimistic that White will eventually reconsider his decision and represent his country in the best way possible. He believes that it is up to White to decide when and if he wants to return to the England national team. Regardless of the outcome, Arteta and his Arsenal teammates continue to show their support for White and respect his decision.
In conclusion, Ben White’s boycott of England’s international call-ups has caused a stir in the football world. Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, hopes that White will eventually end his protest and make a return to the national team. Despite the alleged tensions between White and the England coaching staff, Gareth Southgate has left the door open for White’s potential return. The decision ultimately rests with the player himself, and Arteta emphasizes the importance of supporting White’s personal and professional choices. As the situation unfolds, football fans eagerly await White’s next move and the potential resolution of this controversy.