“This No Longer Feels Like Home” — Ben White’s Heartfelt Revelation Signals Summer Exit from Arsenal Amid Tension with Arteta
In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Arsenal fanbase, defender Ben White has openly expressed his deep frustration and emotional detachment from the club he once called home. The 26-year-old, known for his versatility and commitment, has confirmed he’s actively pursuing a summer transfer after what he described as repeated sidelining by manager Mikel Arteta.
“I never imagined a time would come when I’d be sitting on the bench at Arsenal, especially after everything I’ve given to this club. I’ve already instructed my agent to sort out a transfer because it no longer feels like home,” White confessed in an exclusive interview that has ignited fierce debate among fans and pundits alike.
The statement, raw and revealing, comes on the back of growing speculation surrounding White’s future at the Emirates. Once considered one of the most consistent and trusted players in Arteta’s system, White has found game time increasingly hard to come by this season. With the emergence of younger options and tactical shifts, the Englishman has frequently been left out of the starting XI — a development that clearly hasn’t sat well with him.
White’s arrival at Arsenal in the summer of 2021 from Brighton for a reported £50 million marked a significant investment in the club’s defensive rebuild. Over the past few seasons, he has been a crucial figure in Arsenal’s resurgence, most notably during their surprise title challenge in the 2022–23 season. Whether deployed at right-back or in central defence, White brought a unique blend of composure, physicality, and footballing intelligence to Arteta’s evolving squad.
However, this season has seen a noticeable decline in his minutes, especially in high-stakes matches. Arteta’s preference for a more attacking full-back or the recent promotion of academy prospects has gradually pushed White to the fringes. Despite maintaining his fitness and professionalism, White’s omission has been persistent — and, in his own words, “disheartening.”
Sources close to the player suggest that the tipping point came after he was left out of the squad for a key North London Derby, despite being fully fit and available. According to those in the know, White felt “humiliated” and “unwanted,” especially after watching less experienced players get the nod ahead of him in crucial fixtures.
Fans are divided in their reaction. Some believe Arteta has every right to rotate his squad and make bold tactical decisions, while others argue that White’s treatment is unfair given his consistent performances and loyalty to the badge. Social media has exploded with messages of both support and criticism, with hashtags like #JusticeForBenWhite and #ArtetaOut trending in some Arsenal circles.
As for Arteta, he has yet to publicly respond to White’s statement. But insiders claim there have been behind-the-scenes tensions between the two for several months, stemming from a reported disagreement over White’s preferred role. While Arteta sees him as a utility option, White has always viewed himself as a starting-caliber player — a belief backed by his performances over the last two years.
With his contract running until 2026, any potential exit would likely involve significant negotiation. Several Premier League clubs, including Newcastle and Manchester United, are believed to be monitoring the situation closely, while overseas interest from Serie A and La Liga is also growing.
Ben White’s candid declaration feels like the end of a chapter — one that began with promise and pride but now seems to be closing with disappointment and disillusionment. Whether Arsenal fans agree with his stance or not, it’s clear that one of the club’s most dependable players no longer sees his future in red and white. As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on how this dramatic saga unfolds.