Arsenal have been dealt a major blow in their quest for Premier League and Champions League glory, as defender Ben White has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a significant knee injury.

The 28-year-old right-back suffered the injury during Arsenal's crucial 1-0 victory over West Ham on Sunday, leaving the London Stadium with a brace on his right knee after being substituted in the first half. Manager Mikel Arteta's initial fears that the injury "didn't look good at all" have now been confirmed, with the club announcing on Tuesday that White has sustained a "significant medial knee ligament injury."

This devastating news means White will miss Arsenal's final two Premier League matches, as well as the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 30. The injury also casts serious doubt on his availability for England's World Cup campaign in North America, which kicks off next month.

"Assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed that Ben White has sustained a significant medial knee ligament injury, which will rule him out for the remainder of this season," Arsenal said in a statement. "Our medical team are now managing Ben's recovery and rehabilitation programme, with everyone fully focused on supporting the aim of Ben being ready for the start of our pre-season preparations."

White's absence creates a significant selection headache for Arteta, particularly with Jurrien Timber also sidelined. The Gunners must now navigate pivotal fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace, followed by the Champions League final, without one of their most reliable defenders.

Despite this setback, Arsenal remain firmly in control of their Premier League title destiny, sitting five points clear of Manchester City with a game in hand as they chase their first league crown since 2004. However, White's injury serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins that can define a season at the highest level.