Arsenal defender Ben White has been recalled to the England national team for the first time since a surprising departure during the 2022 World Cup.
England manager Thomas Tuchel announced White’s inclusion on Monday, March 23, 2026, for upcoming friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan, as a replacement for the injured Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah.
White previously indicated he no longer wished to represent England after leaving the squad early at the World Cup in Qatar, without disclosing the reasons for his decision.
Former England manager Gareth Southgate had expressed interest in bringing White, 28, back into the fold before the 2024 European Championship, but was unable to persuade the player to return.
White left the England camp at the 2022 World Cup for what the Football Association described as personal reasons, requesting privacy without providing further details. His sudden exit came shortly before England’s first knockout stage match, creating a stir among fans and media alike.
Southgate later denied reports of a falling out between White and then-England assistant coach Steve Holland, leaving White’s extended absence from the national team shrouded in mystery.
Tuchel, who took over as England manager following Southgate’s departure in 2025, stated he would be in contact with the Arsenal player, who remains one of the top performers in his position in the Premier League.
The recall significantly increases White’s chances of being included in the England squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Should he feature against Uruguay or Japan, it will mark White’s first international appearance since playing against Ivory Coast in March 2022.
