The data now suggests that one Arsenal player would be an ideal tactical fit for Manchester City and some other top European outfits.
The numbers indicate that Arsenal defender Ben White could shine for the Gunners’ rivals.
White has been in the headlines in recent days for his stance on playing for England.Gareth Southgate recently revealed that White has requested not to be considered for international selection at this time.
The 26-year-old has four caps to his name already, but has not been included in a Three Lions squad since he left the 2022 World Cup in Qatar early, without having played a minute of football in the tournament.
The reasons for White’s decision to pull out of contention for international duty are not entirely clear. However, the right-back’s choice has not been received well in all quarters. Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp was outraged by White’s course of action, and made his feelings clear in a furious rant.
Mikel Arteta will stand by the player, though. The north London club have already made a show of support for the former Brighton and Hove Albion man. On the same day that Southgate revealed the player’s decision to snub England, Arsenal officially announced that White had been handed a new long-term contract.
On top of that, White is a fan-favourite at the Emirates Stadium. The Arsenal supporters will rally behind him too, as he is likely to come under fire from opposition fans during Premier League matches in the coming weeks.
Arsenal told Ben White would fit in at Manchester City
Had he decided to play for his country, White would have stood an excellent chance of travelling to Euro 2024 this summer. The full-back has been in fantastic form this season, particularly in recent weeks, and his versatility would likely appeal to Southgate, as he can slot in comfortably in the heart of the defensive line, too.
The data shows just how useful a player White is. As reported by The Athletic, the Arsenal man is one of the most progressive and accurate passers amongst all full-backs in Europe’s top five leagues. Analytics also show that he would be a “good fit” for Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and AC Milan, as his style of play suits the tactical systems that those clubs operate with.
Of course, though, White is already a perfect fit for Arsenal, who are now in a position where they can compete directly with the likes of Manchester City and Bayern Munich. The Gunners are currently locked in a title race with Pep Guardiola’s side, and will soon face-off against the German giants in the quarter-final of the Champions League.