Ben White's behaviour towards younger players "surprised" Arsenal's hierarchy

Ben White’s behaviour towards Arsenal’s younger players “surprised” the club’s hierarchy, it has been claimed.

It was a busy news day for White last Thursday. Firstly, it emerged that the 26-year-old had signed a new four-year contract with Arsenal, after becoming a key part of Mikel Arteta’s side while operating as a right-back and centre-back.

Since joining from Brighton, White has made 97 Premier League appearances, netting four goals.

Later that day, England manager Gareth Southgate announced his England squad for upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Brazil, with White absent.

White has not featured for England since leaving the World Cup camp back in November 2022, and Southgate explained that the defender "didn't want to be considered" for international duty.

Of course, neither the new Arsenal deal nor the England snub came as much of a surprise.

With regards to the former, an Athletic article attempting to unpack White’s enigmatic personality claimed that the player had become one of Arsenal’s leaders this season.

The publication added that staff were “pleasantly surprised” when, during a pre-season training session, White “laid down the law” to some of the younger players.

Moreover, he has increasingly become one of the voices to speak up in a pre-match huddle - such leadership qualities that have benefitted Arsenal.

Ben White has become a leader at Arsenal (Getty)

"It's great news that Ben is committing his future to the club, Ben is a key player for us," said Arteta.

"He's a top professional with a winning mentality and one of the guys who leads by example every day.

"Ben's ability, determination and positive attitude are so important, but he is also a great character and human being. We all look forward to continue working with Ben in the coming years."

On the new deal White added: "I think if you do look at the ages [of the players], it's going to get better. When those sorts of players are getting signed, it shows there is a real ambition about the club and it is something I am loving being a part of."

Topics: Arsenal, Ben White, England, Gareth Southgate, Mikel Arteta, Premier League

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.