No knife, no problem: Ben White’s non-surgical knee rehab could see him return for pre-season
In a significant boost for Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of the final stretch of the 2025/26 season, Arsenal defender Ben White has been cleared of the need for surgical intervention on his troublesome knee injury. The 28-year-old, who has been a mainstay at right-back and in central defense for the Gunners, underwent extensive scans and specialist consultations last week after reporting persistent discomfort in his right knee.
Initial fears within the club suggested that White might require an arthroscopic procedure a development that could have ruled him out for up to three months, including the start of the next campaign. However, updated medical assessments have confirmed that the issue is manageable with a structured rehabilitation program. The England international will now undergo a six-to-eight-week intensive physiotherapy regimen focusing on load management, quadriceps strengthening, and inflammation control.
This news arrives at a crucial juncture. With Arsenal currently locked in a tight top-four battle and still competing in the FA Cup, losing White for an extended period would have been a major blow. The former Brighton man has made 42 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing two goals and four assists, while his versatility has covered injuries to Jurriën Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Speaking in a press conference ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa, Arteta expressed relief: “Ben is a warrior. He wanted to push through, but we had to think long-term. No surgery is the best possible outcome. We expect him back before pre-season, fully fit.”
White is expected to resume light training in four weeks, with a potential return for the final matchday of the season if Arsenal secures Champions League football. The club’s medical team will manage his workload carefully, but crucially, he will not require a prolonged layoff or the risks associated with post-operative recovery.
For Arsenal fans, this is a quiet victory in an injury-hit campaign. No surgery means no lost summer. Expect a fully fit Ben White leading the backline when the 2026/27 season kicks off.
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