Thomas Tuchel has clarified Ben White’s position on returning to the England squad after his long absence under Gareth Southgate and assistant coach Steve Holland.
The 27-year-old Arsenal defender hasn’t played for England since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In March 2023, White reportedly asked not to be included in Southgate’s squad for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, amid rumors of a falling out with Holland.
According to The Athletic, during the World Cup, White and Holland had a disagreement, leading to White leaving the squad for what was officially described as “personal reasons.” The Telegraph later reported that the tension may have started when Holland asked Kyle Walker about Manchester City’s 2021/22 season, then posed a similar question to White about Arsenal. After White supposedly said he didn’t know, Holland allegedly responded by accusing him of lacking interest in football.
Now, more than two years later, new England boss Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that White is open to playing for England again. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Tuchel said, “He’s happy to be back in the squad, but given the seriousness of his recent injury, it’s too soon for him.”
Tuchel added, “I’m pleased he’s back. He’s completed consecutive training sessions, and we’ve been tracking his recovery. Credit to the FA’s medical and performance teams and thanks to Arsenal for their support.”
This update comes after ex-England midfielder Nicky Butt suggested that White should not be called up again, saying, “He’s a great player, but not so good that we should beg him to return. Once a player steps away from international duty like that, there shouldn’t be a way back.”
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