March 15th 2024.
The news of Ben White declining an invitation to represent his country created quite a stir among fans and the media. Many were quick to connect the dots when Arsenal released a tribute video of their players praising White just hours before it was announced that he would not be joining the England national team.
However, according to The Telegraph, the timing of the video was purely coincidental and not a strategic move by Arsenal to soften the blow of White's decision. In fact, the video was planned well in advance as a way to showcase White's character through the words of his teammates, who know him best.
It is no secret that White is not one to speak at length in interviews, hence the idea to have his teammates share their thoughts on him instead. Unfortunately, the mystery surrounding White's decision to decline the call-up continues as even England manager Gareth Southgate is in the dark.
Southgate revealed that he had spoken to White shortly after the Qatar World Cup, where he sensed some hesitation from the player. However, he was not informed of White's decision personally, with Arsenal's sporting director Edu communicating the news to the FA on White's behalf.
Despite this, Southgate remains a fan of White and hopes to keep the door open for him in the future. He expressed his disappointment at not being able to include the talented defender in the squad, but also made it clear that there are no hard feelings between them.
As of now, neither Arsenal nor the FA have provided any explanation for White's decision. But one thing is for sure, the 26-year-old is committed to his club, as evidenced by his new four-year contract with Arsenal that was announced on the same day as his England snub.
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