Mikel Arteta confirmed Arsenal defender Ben White will be on the sidelines for “months” after suffering a knee injury.
White has been dealing with several issues throughout the season and has already missed five games in all competitions for the Gunners this season.
After struggling through to November's international break, it was decided he would undergo surgery to finally address the ongoing problems.
It is a bitter blow for Arteta, with only Thomas Parety (13) making more interceptions than White (11) for Arsenal in the Premier League this season.
Although Arteta confirmed the operation was successful, White is set to be out of the team for a long period.
“It's been different battles. It's never been the same, but we had to make a decision. Unfortunately, he hasn't improved in recent weeks,” Arteta said.
“We know Ben is going to push every limit, but it got to the point where we had to protect the player and we decided to carry out the operation.
“He agreed and it will keep him out for a few months.”
Asked about a specific time frame, Arteta added: “We have to see how he responds after the operation. I don't expect it to be six months but I can't tell you exactly.”
Mikel Arteta has given an injury update on Ben White
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 22, 2024
It is a concern for Arteta in the wing-back department, with the Spaniard also revealing on Friday that Takehiro Tomiyasu “will also be out for a while”.
However, there was some positive injury news for the Gunners ahead of welcoming Nottingham Forest to the Emirates on Saturday.
After not playing for England during the international break, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice are expected to be fit to face Nuno Espirito Santo's side.
Leandro Trossard will also be available for Arteta despite a hamstring injury during the international break with Belgium.
Defender Riccardo Calafiori is also in action for Saturday's match after a month's absence due to a knee problem.
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