Ben White refuses to reveal England exile secrets but stands by World Cup walkout decision

Ben White has declared he will not reveal the private details behind his near two-year England exile, but says he would make the same decision again if faced with the same circumstances.

The Arsenal defender left England’s 2022 World Cup camp in Qatar early, citing personal reasons. Reports subsequently pointed to an alleged confrontation with then-assistant coach Steve Holland, who was said to have publicly rebuked White in front of team-mates over his tactical preparation and his well-documented habit of not watching football outside of playing it. Gareth Southgate publicly denied any rift between the pair.

The fallout proved lasting. In March 2024, Southgate confirmed that Arsenal’s then-sporting director Edu had informed the Football Association that White did not wish to be considered for international selection, effectively ruling him out of Euro 2024. White remained unavailable for the rest of Southgate’s tenure before new head coach Thomas Tuchel recalled him to the squad.

Speaking this week, White said he has no intention of naming names or assigning blame. “I’m not going to throw anyone under the bus,” he said, adding that several people had attempted to do exactly that to him during the episode and that he had no desire to respond in kind. He described himself as a “real” person who makes firm decisions and prefers to move forward rather than relitigate the past.

White also addressed the boos he received from a section of England supporters on his return, acknowledging that fans “don’t know the full story” and might react differently if they did. He stopped short of elaborating on that story, however, and stressed that supporters are entitled to their own opinions. Despite the hostile reception from some, he said he feels “deeply privileged” to be representing his country again.

Asked whether he regrets walking away from the World Cup, White was unequivocal. He admitted the situation was not one he is entirely happy about, but confirmed he would make the same call again. The 27-year-old’s return under Tuchel draws a line under one of the more unusual episodes in recent England history — even if the full account of what happened in Qatar remains, by White’s own choice, untold.