In a bittersweet update for Arsenal fans, Ben White will avoid knee surgery—but his World Cup dreams have likely been dashed. The Gunners confirmed Tuesday that the defender suffered a "significant medial knee ligament injury" during their hard-fought 1-0 victory over West Ham on Sunday.

While the 28-year-old won't need an operation on his right knee, his absence will stretch through Arsenal's final three matches, potentially costing them a historic Premier League and Champions League double. The club remains hopeful he'll return for pre-season, but the timing couldn't be worse for White's international ambitions.

After ending a four-year international exile, White had just earned call-ups for England's recent matches against Uruguay and Japan. But with Thomas Tuchel set to name his World Cup squad in just 12 days—and England's opener against Croatia slated for June 17—the defender's comeback tour appears over before it truly began.

For Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, White's injury creates a defensive puzzle at right-back. With Jurrien Timber also sidelined for two months by a groin problem, the Gunners face a crucial run-in against Burnley and Crystal Palace as they chase their first league title in 22 years. The Champions League final against Paris St Germain adds even more pressure. Cristhian Mosquera is expected to step up, while Declan Rice—who has filled in at right-back this season—remains an emergency option.

For a team chasing silverware on multiple fronts, every player counts. And for White, a player who fought his way back into the England setup, this injury is a cruel twist in what had been a remarkable resurgence.