Ben White admits missing 2026 World Cup through injury left him in tears

Ben White has revealed he broke down in tears after learning an injury would rule him out of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, the latest setback in an international career that has rarely followed a straightforward path.

The Arsenal defender, 29, was recalled to the England squad by Thomas Tuchel in March after a four-year absence — only for injury to deny him a place in the summer tournament. “It was one I had to process quickly. And get my head around as I knew I would not be ready,” White said. “So I had a cry around the pitch when it happened and focused on my career. I’ve been obviously around it and not quite put my foot in the door in these big games. And yeah, it’s definitely something I want to do and be involved in for sure.”

White’s emotional response stands in contrast to the narrative that has followed him since he flew home from the 2022 Qatar World Cup, an episode he remains reluctant to fully explain. Former England manager Gareth Southgate later said White had made himself unavailable and snubbed a recall, though White insists the full story has never been told.

“There were loads of things that happened and communication wasn’t great,” White said. “I don’t want to throw anyone under the bus; a lot of people try to do that to me so it’s something I don’t want to do myself. I was a bit younger. Obviously, I’m a bit older now. I think, as a person, I’m quite real, and I think I made the decision that I would probably continue to make.”

Now settled back into the international picture under Tuchel, White is focused on what lies ahead rather than revisiting old grievances. The versatile defender, capable of playing right back and centre half, has spoken warmly of the new manager’s approach.

“The manager’s communication is amazing. He’s always in contact, and I think a manager that you really want to play for, that you want to give everything to,” White said. “It’s been obviously amazing for me. Such a privilege to ever get close to playing for your country, something I probably didn’t even dream of because I didn’t think it would be anywhere near my reality. So yeah, there’s been a few bumps, and obviously here now, and looking forward to this story continuing.”