Arsenal have suffered a significant injury setback ahead of the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, with defender Ben White ruled out of the showpiece event. The 28-year-old England international sustained a suspected medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury during Arsenal's 1-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday, May 10.
White's Injury Confirmed
According to reports from Tribuna, White will miss the remainder of the season and is also a doubt for the FIFA World Cup squad this summer. The defender left the London Stadium wearing a knee brace after a first-half collision with West Ham's Crysencio Summerville. White had been an ever-present figure in Arsenal's recent matches, starting their last five games including both legs of the Champions League semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid.
Impact on Arsenal's Defense
White's absence is a major blow for manager Mikel Arteta, as the defender has formed a crucial partnership with Bukayo Saka on the right flank. Arsenal fans have expressed their disappointment on social media. @Phonomobile1 commented: "That's a brutal blow for Arsenal. Ben White has been one of the most reliable players in that squad, and losing him at this stage could seriously affect their balance defensively." @ibrahimkalange_ added: "We have the depth, but White's chemistry with Saka is irreplaceable. Arteta has a massive puzzle to solve before the final."
Replacement Options
With Jurrien Timber also sidelined since mid-March due to an ankle problem, summer signing Cristhian Mosquera emerges as the leading candidate to start at right-back in Budapest. The only other recognised full-back in the senior squad is 19-year-old Joshua Nichols, who has made just one first-team appearance, according to Yahoo Sports. Arsenal will face PSG at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary, on Saturday, May 30, 2026, with kickoff at 5 pm local time. The Gunners are competing in their first Champions League final in 20 years, while PSG are aiming to defend their title after reaching their second consecutive final.
