The upcoming London derby between Arsenal and Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday is all set to be a fierce encounter.

Defender Ben White opens up about his expectations for the match and shares insights about his development at Arsenal, his camaraderie with his teammates, and his hopes for the season.

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 02: Ben White of Arsenal looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal FC and AS Monaco at Emirates Stadium on August 02, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 02: Ben White of Arsenal looks on during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal FC and AS Monaco at Emirates Stadium on August 02, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Fulham’s visit to the Emirates Stadium this weekend will mark back-to-back London derbies for Arsenal, following Monday’s trip to Crystal Palace.

The game promises to be a challenging one, and defender Ben White is prepared for another battle for three points.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game [against Palace]. They’re a very good side with a very good manager who knows what he’s doing. Especially with 10 men, it’s a hard place to go. I don’t think you’ve seen the best of what we can do. We’re looking to be better than last year,” said White.

White expressed relief at not having to face Aleksandar Mitrovic, who recently transferred to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal. “I played against him in the Championship as well and that was always hard, so he’s a very good striker and one that I’m quite pleased to see go!” he laughed.

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 27: Aleksandar Mitrovic of Fulham reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Fulham FC at Emirates Stadium on August 27, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Paul Harding/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 27: Aleksandar Mitrovic of Fulham reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Fulham FC at Emirates Stadium on August 27, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Paul Harding/Getty Images)

At just 25, White has become one of the more experienced players in Arsenal’s youthful squad. Described as a ‘mentality monster’ by teammate Rob Holding, he discussed his growth as a player and person since joining Arsenal. “I came as a boy after switching round loads of clubs, and I’ve grown as a person and a player,” he said.

White also praised his teammate Bukayo Saka: “He’s amazing,” Ben said. “I’ve said before that he makes me look so much better than I am! He’s doing it on a consistent basis which is so important. At his age, it’s amazing.”

Reflecting on the triumphant feeling of beating Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley, White voiced his hopes for more silverware in the 2023/24 season.

Arsenal players celebrate winning the English FA Community Shield football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, in London, August 6, 2023. Arsenal won after a 4-1 penalty shoot-out win, following the 1-1 draw in 90 minutes. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal players celebrate winning the English FA Community Shield football match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, in London, August 6, 2023. Arsenal won after a 4-1 penalty shoot-out win, following the 1-1 draw in 90 minutes. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

“If there’s a trophy available then it’s nice to get one as soon in the season as possible. We’re hoping for more in the rest of the season. To win the Premier League is not just about beating City, it’s everyone. They’re an amazing side and have done it for so long but, on their day, anyone can beat anyone.”

With White’s optimism and the strength of the team, Arsenal is looking forward to a fruitful season.

The upcoming match against Fulham will be a test of their resolve and determination, and White’s insights offer a glimpse into Arsenal’s mindset ahead of this London derby.