MIKEL ARTETA highlights that the upcoming month of rehabilitation will be crucial for Ben White after his successful knee surgery.

The Gunners’ full-back White underwent the procedure during the international break, shortly after playing a full 90 minutes in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea on November 10.

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The 27-year-old had been managing the injury for a few weeks, and Arteta mentioned that the player would be out for “months,” but he did not expect an absence lasting “half a year.”

Despite the challenge, the club is optimistic that White will be able to contribute significantly at some point in 2025, although Arteta is focused on ensuring he does not rush his recovery.

White is recognized by the Arsenal medical staff for his determination to play through discomfort when facing injuries.

When asked if White is approaching the beginning of his rehabilitation, Arteta replied: “It’s still early days.

“The surgery was very successful, and there has been no adverse reaction since. He is improving day by day, but the first four to six weeks are crucial.

“We must be extremely careful and avoid placing any strain on that knee, and then we will evaluate how quickly he can recover and how it responds subsequently.”

Arsenal’s worries regarding their full-backs have subsided in recent weeks as Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori are now fully fit.

Italian international Calafiori returned last weekend following a month-long layoff due to a knee injury, contributing to the team’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, while Dutchman Timber has been managing his fitness following his ACL surgery in August 2023.

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The duo is expected to play for Arsenal in their upcoming match against West Ham tomorrow evening, alongside captain Martin Odegaard, who has recovered from an ankle ligament injury.

Takehiro Tomiyasu remains a long-term absentee after facing knee issues early in the season and dealing with further complications from an undisclosed injury.

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Left-back Kieran Tierney is now also available after recovering from a hamstring strain, making the bench for Arsenal’s Champions League trip to Sporting Lisbon mid-week.

However, reports suggest that the Scotland international may not be a key part of Arteta’s plans moving forward and could potentially leave the club in January, either on loan or permanently.