Ben White will be sidelined for at least six weeks after undergoing minor knee surgery, a fresh setback for an Arsenal side already grappling with a series of injury problems.

The 27-year-old right-back had been managing discomfort in his knee for some time, continuing to play through the pain, but the decision was made during the international break to address the issue surgically.

Earlier in the season, the defender missed four matches due to injury.

White’s absence marks the latest in a string of fitness concerns for Mikel Arteta’s squad.

The latest news comes after Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were forced to pull out of the England squad following injuries sustained in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Sunday.

The Gunners are also still recovering from a two-month absence for captain Martin Ødegaard, adding further pressure to a team that has struggled to maintain consistency this season.

In a rare positive update, however, Arsenal are expecting the return of Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu after the international break.

The defensive reinforcements will be welcomed, though Arteta’s options remain limited as the club prepares for a challenging period in White’s absence.

With his six-week recovery period set to take him into December, Arsenal will hope White’s return can help alleviate the pressure mounting on Arteta’s squad.