Arsenal’s stellar start to the 2025/26 Premier League season has been overshadowed by potential unrest in the squad, with former Gunners striker Alan Smith warning that £50million star Ben White could be among several players considering a shock exit from the Emirates. Additionally, Smith has suggested that marquee summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, despite his £64m price tag, might face periods on the bench as manager Mikel Arteta rotates his attacking options.
Ben White’s Potential Exit Request
Ben White, who joined Arsenal from Brighton for £50m in 2021, has been a key figure in the Gunners’ resurgence under Arteta. However, the versatile defender has recently found himself overtaken in the pecking order by Jurrien Timber at right-back. Timber’s impressive performances, including in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over West Ham United before the international break, have sparked concerns about White’s future at the club.
In an interview with Metro, Smith highlighted the challenges of keeping a large, talented squad content. “When you’ve got such a strong squad, you will have players who aren’t getting regular games,” he said. “Some of them will be thinking, ‘maybe it’s time for a move’. You don’t want to lose them, but it’s hard to keep them all happy.”
Smith noted that White’s situation could hinge on his personal ambitions. “It all depends on Ben and how he feels about the situation. He might be thinking he wants to get his fair share of games somewhere, but he’s also at a club that’s going places. We’ll have to wait and see on that one.” While White has previously formed a strong on-pitch partnership with Bukayo Saka, Timber’s emergence may leave the 28-year-old questioning his role, despite Arsenal’s upward trajectory.
Viktor Gyokeres Faces Competition from Kai Havertz
Arsenal’s summer transfer window saw a significant overhaul, with eight new signings, including Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke, aimed at closing the gap to title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City. Gyokeres, signed for £64m, was expected to lead the line, but Smith believes Arteta may opt for Kai Havertz in certain matches.
“I think there will probably be matches when Mikel Arteta looks at the opposition and the defence and goes with Havertz,” Smith explained. “He’s a really good talent and obviously offers something different to Gyokeres, who’s an out-and-out centre-forward. So there might be times when Havertz plays, and that’s a great option to have.”
Despite the possibility of being dropped, Smith remains optimistic about Gyokeres’ impact. “I’m a fan of his. He’s not like your archetypal Arsenal striker of recent years. He’s quite direct, forthright in the way that he plays. He’s very strong, very quick over five yards or so. I think he’s been a good signing, and he will be going forward. I’m sure he will get his fair share of goals.”
However, Gyokeres’ technical ability has been questioned, with Smith adding, “Maybe technically, he’s not on the level of some of those attacking players. But I think he brings something different from what they’ve had. So the fans should keep faith.”
Arsenal’s Strong Start and New Signings
Arsenal have enjoyed a near-perfect start to the season, sitting top of the Premier League after winning five of their seven matches. They have also secured victories in both of their Champions League games and advanced to the fourth round of the League Cup with a win over Port Vale. The arrivals of Gyokeres, Eze, Zubimendi, and others have bolstered an already formidable squad, raising hopes of a first league title since 2004.
However, the depth of talent has created competition for places, which could lead to discontent among some players. Smith’s comments suggest that White may not be the only one contemplating his future, as Arteta faces the challenge of balancing squad harmony with tactical flexibility.
Gyokeres Criticised, Juventus Star Targeted
Adding to Gyokeres’ challenges, his performances on international duty for Sweden have come under scrutiny. Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson was sacked after a string of disappointing results, with reports claiming he made Gyokeres and other stars “look like Sunday league players.” This criticism could add pressure on the striker to prove his worth at Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly in the race to sign a €90m-rated attacking talent from Juventus, who has been “shining brightly” on the international stage. The unnamed star could further intensify competition in Arsenal’s forward line, potentially impacting Gyokeres’ role.
Conclusion
As Arsenal continue their pursuit of silverware, the potential departure of Ben White would be a significant blow, given his experience and versatility. Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres’ adaptation to Arteta’s system will be crucial, especially with Havertz providing stiff competition. With a packed schedule across multiple competitions, Arteta’s man-management skills will be tested as he aims to keep his star-studded squad united and focused on their title ambitions.