Arsenal Star Gets Shot at World Cup Glory After Four-Year International Banishment

Ben White has received a call-up to the England squad for the upcoming March international fixtures against Uruguay and Japan, representing his first selection for the national team since 2022.

This opportunity has arisen due to Jarell Quansah's withdrawal from the squad, while Real Madrid's Trent Alexander-Arnold remains notably absent from selection once more.

Arsenal's Eberechi Eze has also been withdrawn and substituted by Newcastle United's Harvey Barnes.

White earned his first senior England cap in June 2021, just before finalizing a $69.5 million (£50 million) move to Arsenal from Brighton & Hove Albion. Despite being selected for the 2022 World Cup, the adaptable defender departed the squad during the tournament.

This was attributed to "personal reasons" initially, though reports later suggested a disagreement with then assistant coach Steve Holland. White subsequently withdrew himself from England consideration entirely, with this self-imposed absence only now coming to an end.

England boss Thomas Tuchel had discussions with White prior to announcing his inaugural squad last year, but it has required a complete 12 months for the 28-year-old to rejoin the setup.

White's Versatility Boosts England Chance

White's return is unexpected given his limited playing time for Arsenal this season compared to previous years. He serves as a fifth- or sixth-choice backup at center back, while Jurriën Timber has been the preferred starting right back throughout 2025–26.

However, what makes White an appealing and intriguing choice for Tuchel is his adaptability.

Right back represents a more probable pathway into the England lineup, with Reece James currently sidelined, Kyle Walker having retired, and the previously mentioned Alexander-Arnold evidently not favored despite being completely fit at this time. This situation appears concerning for the Real Madrid player, who seems unable to convince consecutive England managers.

Tino Livramento and Djed Spence are the sole right backs included in Tuchel's extensive March squad—35 players were selected in total, while World Cup squads will likely be limited to 26. All three are essentially competing for a position ahead of the summer selection.

At center back, Marc Guéhi and Harry Maguire appear increasingly probable to form the starting partnership at the World Cup. However, John Stones, Fikayo Tomori, Ezri Konsa and Dan Burn remain candidates for the broader squad. Quansah, currently injured, will also be considered. Not all can secure the final selection.

What White has been offered is an opportunity, though a World Cup spot remains far from certain.