Ben White signs new Arsenal contract until 2028 with the option for an extra year… as defender explains key reason why he has extended his Emirates stay

When Arsenal asked their players for one word to describe Ben White, ‘warrior’ was the most popular.

‘Every team would love to have a Ben White in the team,’ was Gabriel Martinelli’s longer verdict.

He may not be prone to smiling often, his serious demeanour a foil to some, but how valued the defender is among this squad is clear as another vital cog of Arsenal’s backline is secured for another four years.

Ben White’s new contract to 2028, with the option for an extra year, is some marker. His fellow defenders William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are tied down until 2027, while Takehiro Tomiyasu’s new contract is expected to be announced in the coming days.

It is the foundations Edu and Co have laid which make the Gunners a threat for years to come.

White explained that he feels settled at Arsenal and hailed the club’s ‘ambition’ – reasons for him staying put

White said: ‘I have been on loan three times, I have been places for a year. I think this is the first time I’ve actually settled and known I am not going anywhere in the summer. Being here is unbelievable and I’d love to stay (for more years).

‘I think if you do look at the ages, it’s going to get better.’

Seeing the likes of Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard sign long-term contracts played a part too.

He said: ‘Yeah, definitely. I think when those sort of players are getting signed, it shows there is a real ambition about the club and it is something I am loving being a part of.’

The 26-year-old’s talents and character have in recent months come to the fore on a wider scale. Take the 2-1 victory over Brentford last week, where he provided two assists.

Or his willingness to continue playing week to week this season despite carrying a minor knee injury since the end of last year.

Arsenal supporters have long admired his attributes, but…